Denver goaltender Johnny Hicks named Frozen Four MOP

Hicks leads Pioneers to second NCAA National Championship in three seasons

Apr. 12, 2026 at 9:54pm

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An extreme close-up of a goaltender making a save, the movement and energy captured in a vibrant, expressionist style with neon colors and rapid brushstrokes, conceptually representing the outstanding performance of Denver's Johnny Hicks in the national championship game.The Pioneers' freshman goaltender Johnny Hicks shines as Denver claims their second national title in three seasons, cementing their status as a college hockey dynasty.Madison Today

Goaltender Johnny Hicks of the Denver Pioneers was named Most Outstanding Player as the team captured their second NCAA National Championship in three seasons, defeating the Wisconsin Badgers 2-1 in the 2026 Frozen Four final. The undrafted freshman posted 29 saves in the title game after a 49-save performance in the semifinals.

Why it matters

The win marks Denver's 11th national title overall and their fourth in the past 10 years, solidifying the Pioneers as one of the greatest college hockey dynasties. The championship also denies Wisconsin their first title since 2006 and prevents the Badgers from completing a double title after their women's team won the national championship in March.

The details

Hicks, who is only a freshman, took over the starting job in January and finished the season 16-0-1. He allowed just one goal from Buffalo Sabres prospect Vasily Zelenov in the title game and recorded 24 consecutive saves. Hicks was also named MOP in Denver's conference and regional tournaments.

  • The 2026 Frozen Four final was played on April 11, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
  • Denver defeated Wisconsin 2-1 to claim their second national title in three seasons.
  • Hicks was named the 2026 Frozen Four Most Outstanding Player.

The players

Johnny Hicks

A freshman goaltender for the Denver Pioneers who was named the 2026 Frozen Four Most Outstanding Player after leading his team to the national championship.

Kent Anderson

The captain of the Denver Pioneers hockey team.

David Carle

The head coach of the Denver Pioneers hockey team.

Rieger Lorenz

A Minnesota Wild prospect who scored the game-tying goal for Wisconsin in the third period of the national championship game.

Kyle Chyzowski

The Denver Pioneers player who scored the game-winning goal in the national championship game.

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What they’re saying

“Johnny Hicks is unbelievable. He's undefeated. We couldn't have done any of this without him.”

— Kent Anderson, Denver Pioneers captain

“Unbelievable game. Certainly we bent but didn't break. Johnny kept us within striking range ... We found a way again. Johnny kept us within range, as we have found a way in other games. These guys, we saved our best period for last.”

— David Carle, Denver Pioneers head coach

What’s next

The Denver Pioneers will look to defend their national championship next season as they aim to cement their status as one of college hockey's all-time great programs.

The takeaway

Johnny Hicks' outstanding performance in net, including a 29-save effort in the title game, was the key factor in Denver's second national championship in three seasons. The Pioneers' ability to win close games and find a way to victory when it mattered most highlights their championship pedigree.