- Owen Michaels scored the game-winning goal 26 seconds into double overtime.
- Western Michigan defeated Denver 3-2 to advance to their first NCAA championship game.
- The Broncos outshot Denver 47-22, dominating much of the game.
- Denver rallied from a 2-0 deficit in the third period to force overtime.
- Western Michigan will face Boston University in the championship game on Saturday.
Western Michigan Makes History with Double OT Victory Over Denver
In a thrilling Frozen Four semifinal matchup, Western Michigan University (WMU) defeated the University of Denver 3-2 in double overtime on Thursday night at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis. With the victory, the Broncos advanced to their first-ever NCAA national championship game, marking a historic moment for the program.
Owen Michaels: The Overtime Hero
Just 26 seconds into the second overtime period, sophomore forward Owen Michaels delivered the decisive blow. Receiving a pass in the slot, Michaels fired a laser shot past Denver goaltender Matt Davis to secure the win. “I kind of blacked out a little bit,” Michaels said postgame. “It was a broken play, and I just saw the puck squirt out to me. I had some open time and space and figured I’d put it on net.” The goal was Michaels’ second of the night, cementing his status as the hero of the evening.
Dominance on the Ice
Western Michigan controlled much of the game, outshooting Denver 47-22. The Broncos nearly opened the scoring within the first minute when freshman forward Zachary Nehring hit the crossbar on an open-net opportunity. Despite their dominance, the first period ended scoreless.
The Broncos broke through in the second period. Fifth-year defenseman Brian Kramer scored the first goal on a power play, capitalizing on a faceoff win. Minutes later, Michaels extended the lead to 2-0 with a high shot over Davis. Western Michigan’s relentless pressure seemed to overwhelm Denver, as the Broncos outshot the Pioneers 20-5 in the second period alone.
Denver’s Resilient Comeback
Despite being outplayed for much of the game, Denver mounted a comeback in the third period. Junior forward Aidan Thompson, a Chicago Blackhawks prospect, scored to cut the deficit to 2-1. With just 2:39 remaining in regulation, Jared Wright tied the game with a jam play around the crease. The goal was reviewed for potential goaltender interference but ultimately stood, sending the game into overtime.
Denver’s resilience was bolstered by standout performances from key players, including defenseman Zeev Buium. A Hobey Baker finalist and Minnesota Wild prospect, Buium played through visible discomfort after a second-period collision but contributed to Denver’s late-game push. Goaltender Matt Davis also shone, making 44 saves to keep the Pioneers in the game.
Western Michigan’s Historic Season
Under head coach Pat Ferschweiler, Western Michigan has transformed into a powerhouse. The Broncos, who entered the Frozen Four for the first time in program history, have set a single-season record with 33 wins. Ferschweiler, in his fourth season, has built a team defined by its depth, discipline, and physicality. “It’s a focused group. They never lose belief in themselves,” Ferschweiler said after the game.
Thursday’s victory marked Western Michigan’s third win over Denver in four meetings this season. The Broncos have also won nine consecutive games, showcasing their momentum heading into Saturday’s championship matchup against Boston University.
The Championship Game
Western Michigan will face Boston University, a five-time national champion, in the NCAA title game on Saturday. Boston University advanced with a 3-1 victory over Penn State in the other semifinal. The Terriers, led by standout performances from Jack Hughes and Cole Eiserman, are seeking their first championship since 2009.
For Western Michigan, Saturday’s game represents the culmination of years of growth and perseverance. “Win or lose, this team has been consistently impressive all year,” Ferschweiler said. “But we’re not done yet.”
The puck drops at 7:30 PM ET, with the Broncos aiming to cap their historic season with a national title.