Denver Edges Wisconsin In Thrilling Frozen Four Semifinal
Denver Edges Wisconsin In Thrilling Frozen Four Semifinal...
The University of Denver defeated Wisconsin 3-2 in overtime Thursday night in a Frozen Four semifinal that had college hockey fans on edge. The game, played at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, sends Denver to Saturday's national championship game against Boston College.
Freshman defenseman Zeev Buium scored the game-winner 12:19 into overtime, sending Denver players into a frenzied celebration. The victory extends Denver's winning streak to 10 games and keeps alive their quest for a record 10th NCAA hockey championship.
Wisconsin's Cruz Lucius forced overtime with a dramatic tying goal at 18:52 of the third period. The Badgers nearly pulled off the comeback after trailing 2-0 early in the second period behind standout goaltending from Kyle McClellan, who made 38 saves.
The matchup between these historic rivals is trending nationally as one of the most-watched college hockey games this season. ESPN reported strong viewership numbers, particularly in the Midwest where both programs have passionate fan bases.
Denver coach David Carle praised his team's resilience after the emotional rollercoaster of losing a late lead. "Our guys showed championship mentality when it mattered most," Carle told reporters postgame. Wisconsin coach Mike Hastings called it "a heartbreaking way to end an incredible season."
The game's intensity reflected the high stakes - Denver (31-9-3) and Wisconsin (28-12-2) were both top-five teams entering the tournament. Social media erupted during the overtime period, with #FrozenFour trending nationally on Twitter.
Saturday's championship game (6 p.m. ET, ESPN2) will feature Denver's high-powered offense against Boston College's stingy defense. The Eagles advanced earlier Thursday with a 4-0 win over Michigan.
College hockey analysts note this marks Denver's first championship game appearance since 2022, when they won their most recent title. Wisconsin last made the Frozen Four in 2021, continuing their quest for a seventh national championship.
The game's dramatic finish and championship implications explain its current popularity on search trends. Many fans are also discussing Buium's emergence as a potential NHL prospect after his clutch performance.
