Wisconsin Hockey Star Quinn Finley Leads Badgers to National Title Game

The Suamico native had a standout junior season, becoming the first Badger to reach 20 goals and 40 points since 2021.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:38pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the dynamic movements and raw energy of a hockey player on the ice, with the player's face and jersey dissolving into unrecognizable splatters of color.The neon-hued, energetic depiction of Wisconsin hockey star Quinn Finley embodies the passion and intensity he brought to the ice this season.Green Bay Today

Quinn Finley, a 21-year-old junior from Suamico, Wisconsin, recently wrapped up an impressive season with the University of Wisconsin men's hockey team. Finley led the Badgers in goals (17) and helped the team reach the national championship game for the first time since 2010. Despite falling short of the title, Finley's performance has caught the attention of the New York Islanders, who drafted him in the third round in 2022.

Why it matters

Finley's success is a point of pride for the state of Wisconsin, as he follows in the footsteps of other notable Badger hockey players like Joe Pavelski and Cole Caufield. His dedication to improving his all-around game, including taking on a larger role on the penalty kill, demonstrates his commitment to team success over individual accolades.

The details

In his junior season, Finley became the first Wisconsin men's hockey player to reach the 20-goal, 40-point mark since Caufield did so in 2021. Head coach Mike Hastings praised Finley's selflessness in volunteering to take on more responsibility on the penalty kill, noting that it's a 'thankless' role but crucial for the team's success.

  • Finley was selected by the New York Islanders in the third round of the 2022 NHL Draft.
  • Wisconsin made it back to the national championship game for the first time since 2010.

The players

Quinn Finley

A 21-year-old junior from Suamico, Wisconsin, who plays for the University of Wisconsin men's hockey team. Finley led the Badgers in goals (17) and helped the team reach the national championship game.

Mike Hastings

The head coach of the University of Wisconsin men's hockey team, who praised Finley's selflessness and commitment to improving his all-around game.

Joe Pavelski

A former Wisconsin hockey player who won a national championship with the Badgers.

Cole Caufield

A former Wisconsin hockey player who won the Hobey Baker Award in 2021 and is also from Wisconsin.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Just knowing that Joe Pavelski won it here and he was a Wisconsin kid. And obviously Cole Caufield having the year he did here with winning the Hobey Baker. Looking up to those two guys and them both being from Wisconsin means a lot. I just want to win something here.”

— Quinn Finley, Wisconsin Hockey Player

“That isn't a number driven responsibility. Those are thankless minutes. But he knows if he wants to get to the next level and be successful, or even for our team to be as successful, we need our best players doing that.”

— Mike Hastings, Wisconsin Hockey Head Coach

What’s next

Finley and his family will sit down with his agent at the end of the season to discuss his future, including the possibility of turning pro and signing with the New York Islanders, who drafted him in 2022.

The takeaway

Quinn Finley's standout junior season with the Wisconsin Badgers has cemented his status as one of the top hockey players in the state, following in the footsteps of other notable Badger alumni. His dedication to improving his all-around game and helping the team reach new heights demonstrates his commitment to team success, making him a player to watch as he weighs his professional options.