Penn State Freshman Gavin McKenna Shines in Historic Game

McKenna set single-game program and Big Ten records in Penn State's 11-4 win over Ohio State.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Penn State freshman forward Gavin McKenna had a record-setting performance in the Nittany Lions' 11-4 victory over Ohio State. McKenna recorded eight points, including seven assists, setting single-game program and Big Ten records. The win was a much-needed reset for Penn State, which had been dealing with a number of injuries and had not won a game in regulation in nearly a month.

Why it matters

McKenna's historic performance comes at a crucial time for the Nittany Lions, who have been struggling with injuries and trying to regain their footing in the Big Ten. The freshman's breakout game showcases his immense talent and potential, and could be a turning point for the team as they look to make a push in the second half of the season.

The details

McKenna shattered Penn State single-game records for points (eight) and assists (seven), leading the Nittany Lions to the lopsided victory over Ohio State. He also set Big Ten records with his eight points and seven assists, which were the most by a player in a game between conference teams. Five of those were primary assists. Penn State also tied a program record with 11 goals, the most it has scored in a Big Ten game.

  • On February 21, 2026, Penn State defeated Ohio State 11-4.
  • McKenna set the Penn State single-game records for points (8) and assists (7) in the game.

The players

Gavin McKenna

A freshman forward for the Penn State Nittany Lions, McKenna is considered the consensus No. 1 prospect for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft.

Guy Gadowsky

The head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions men's hockey team.

Dane Dowiak

The captain of the Penn State Nittany Lions men's hockey team, who underwent season-ending surgery prior to the game against Ohio State.

Aiden Fink

A Penn State Nittany Lions player who recorded a career-best five points in the win over Ohio State.

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What they’re saying

“We wanted to try to find a way to just win a game. It's an important part of the year, and I think that's where our mentality was. Gavin obviously can contribute in offensive ways, and he sure did. I mean, he came to play in a game that we knew we'd need some of our special players to make special plays, and he sure did.”

— Guy Gadowsky, Head Coach, Penn State Nittany Lions (si.com)

“Obviously, putting up eight points is ridiculous in a game, especially college hockey, so I'm proud of him. He's playing with heart, he's playing his game, he's shooting the puck. And, yeah, it's awesome playing alongside him.”

— Aiden Fink, Penn State Nittany Lions Player (si.com)

“Being at the rink, being with the guys, it's kind of my getaway and just playing the game I love. So it's been a lot of fun. And anytime you have a game like this, where the team's just clicking, it's a lot of fun to be a part of.”

— Gavin McKenna (si.com)

What’s next

Penn State returns to Pegula Ice Arena on Saturday night for the second game vs. Ohio State. Faceoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on Big Ten Network.

The takeaway

Gavin McKenna's historic performance showcases his immense talent and potential, and could be a turning point for the Penn State Nittany Lions as they look to make a push in the second half of the season. The freshman's ability to rise to the occasion and lead his team to a much-needed victory highlights his value as a key player for the program.