undefined Men’s Hockey News

Hockey Season-In-Review

Unknown — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy of Michigan State Athletics

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• The 13th season of Big Ten Hockey concluded April 11 at the NCAA Frozen Four as No. 12/4 Wisconsin fell to No. 4/3 Denver, 2-1, in the championship game held at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

• The Big Ten sent four teams to the 2026 NCAA Tournament. Michigan earned the conference’s automatic berth while Michigan State, Penn State and Wisconsin received at-large entries to the 16-team field. For the fifth-straight year, Big Ten teams advanced to the Frozen Four. During the regular season, the Big Ten compiled a mark of 50-24-7 (.660) against the other five conferences and independent teams.

• Several Big Ten players were honored at the Friday Night at the Frozen Four awards ceremony held April 10 at the Park MGM Presidio Ballroom. Michigan State junior Trey Augustine was presented the Mike Richter Award, given to the top goaltender in college hockey. Augustine finished his career with a 66-25-7 record, 2.40 goals-against average, .922 save percentage and nine shutouts in 99 games. He was one of five student-athletes to achieved All-America status:

AHCA/CCM West First Team
TJ Hughes, F, Michigan
Trey Augustine, G, Michigan State
Porter Martone, F, Michigan State

AHCA/CCM West Second Team
Charlie Stramel, F, Michigan State
Gavin McKenna, F, Penn State

• Michigan State became just the second program to win three consecutive Big Ten regular season titles, joining Minnesota, which won four in a row from 2014-17. Michigan captured the Big Ten Tournament, claiming it’s fourth title overall, the most among conference schools. In the classroom, Big Ten Hockey teams earned 98 Academic All-Big Ten selections with Notre Dame leading the way with 16 recipients.

• The Big Ten had four teams finish in the Top 20 in the final USCHO.com and USA Today polls. Earning spots were No. 2/2 Wisconsin, No. 3/3 Michigan, No. 5/5 Michigan State and No. 11/11 Penn State. The Big Ten occupied the consensus No. 1 ranking from Oct. 20 through March 30. The 23-week stretch atop the polls alternated between Michigan (15 weeks) and Michigan State (eight weeks).

• A total of 86 former Big Ten players made regular season appearances in the National Hockey League in 2025-26. Included among that group was 2026 All-Big Ten First Team selection Porter Martone of Michigan State, who signed with the Philadelphia Flyers on March 29 and recorded four goals and 10 points in nine games. The Big Ten was home to 68 NHL Draft picks and on the international stage, 16 players and two coaches took part in the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. In addition, nine skaters and PSU Head Coach Guy Gadowsky led the inaugural U.S. Collegiate Selects to a runner-up finish at the 97th Spengler Cup in Davos, Switzerland.

• In the final NCAA rankings, Michigan placed first in six statistical categories: winning percentage (78.8), scoring offense (4.53 goals per game), scoring margin (2.13), power play goals (44), power play percentage (31.9) and short-handed goals (11). Individually, Penn State’s Gavin McKenna paced the nation in assists per game (1.03), Michigan’s Will Horcoff and Michigan State’s Charlie Stramel were co-leaders in game-winning goals (7), Penn State’s Dane Dowiak led the country in short-handed tallies (4) and teammate Matt DiMarsico recorded the most hat tricks (3). A top NHL prospect, McKenna won the Big Ten scoring title with 38 points, matching the third-highest point total in 13 seasons, and was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year. His eight points (1-7) against Ohio State Feb. 20 were the most in a game by a college player in 39 seasons.

• Big Ten teams played before large crowds with four schools ranked among the Top 10 in NCAA attendance. The Big Ten also produced the two highest attended games in the NCAA. The Jan. 31 outdoor contest at Beaver Stadium between host Penn State and Michigan State drew 74,575 fans, the second-largest crowd in college hockey history, and the Michigan-Michigan State “Duel in the D” matchup Feb. 7 attracted a solid-out audience of 19,515 to Little Caesars Arena.

• Regular season television viewership on the Big Ten Network was up three percent year-over-year. The Wisconsin-Michigan game Nov. 8 delivered 175,000 viewers, becoming the second most-watched regular season hockey game in BTN history. It was the most-watched regular season game on BTN since March 2015.

Three Big Ten Players Earn HCA Monthly Awards Honors

Unknown — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – Three hockey players from the Big Ten Conference have been recognized with national monthly awards. Michigan senior TJ Hughes was tabbed Co-Forward, Wisconsin senior Ben Dexheimer chosen Defender and Ohio State forward Jake Karabela cited as Co-Rookie for the combined months of March and April. The awards are presented by the Hockey Commissioners Association (HCA).

Hughes compiled four goals and six assists for 10 points in six games during the last two months of the season. He was named Big Ten Player of the Year and a AHCA All-American. Dexheimer amassed a goal, five assists and six points in seven games in captaining the Badgers to the NCAA Championship Game. He was an All-Big Ten First Team selection. Karabela totaled four goals and five assists for nine points in five games, helping the Buckeyes advance to the Big Ten Tournament Championship Final. Karabela was selected to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team.

The Big Ten had winners for every month the 2025-26 HCA Awards were presented, receiving 11 selections overall. Below is a list of Big Ten recipients for the season:

October
Co-Forward: JJ Wiebusch, Penn State
Co-Defender: Ben Robertson, Michigan
Rookie: Gavin McKenna, Penn State

November
Forward: Will Horcoff, Michigan

December
Goalie: Jack Ivankovic, Michigan
Rookie: Anthony Romani, Michigan State

January
Co-Rookie: Josh Fleming, Penn State

February
Rookie: Gavin McKenna, Penn State

March/April
Co-Forward: TJ Hughes, Michigan
Defender: Ben Dexheimer, Wisconsin
Co-Rookie: Jake Karabela, Ohio State

Wisconsin Falls in NCAA Hockey Championship Game

Unknown — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy of Wisconsin Athletics

BOX SCORE

LAS VEGAS – Wisconsin’s run in the NCAA Hockey Tournament came to an end with a 2-1 loss to Denver in the NCAA Championship Game, played before a sellout crowd of 17,849 at T-Mobile Arena on Saturday.

Wisconsin (24-13-2), which had defeated a pair of No. 1 seeds to make the final, held a 1-0 lead after two periods before Denver scored twice in the third period to pull out the win. Vasily Zelenov scored for the Badgers and was named to the Frozen Four All-Tournament Team along with teammate defenseman Ben Dexheimer.

Wisconsin finished with a 30-15 advantage in shots as it made its ninth appearance all-time in the championship game.

2026 NCAA Hockey Tournament Central

Unknown — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BRACKET | BIG TEN (NCAA HISTORY)

Regional Semifinals
WorcesterRegional (DCU Center)	#1 Michigan State d. #4 Connecticut, 2-1	Thursday, March 26	1:30 p.m. ET	ESPN2 \| Box Score
Worcester Regional (DCU Center)	#3 Wisconsin d. #2 Dartmouth, 5-1	Thursday, March 26	5:00 p.m. ET	ESPNU \| Box Score
Albany Regional (MVP Arena)	#1 Michigan d. #4 Bentley, 5-1	Friday, March 27	5:30 p.m. ET	ESPNU \| Box Score
Albany Regional (MVP Arena)	#2 Minnesota Duluth d. #3 Penn State, 3-1	Friday, March 27	9:00 p.m. ET	ESPN2 \| Box Score
Regional Finals
Worcester Regional (DCU Center)	#3 Wisconsin d. #1 Michigan State, 4-3 (OT)	Saturday, March 28	4:30 p.m. ET	Box Score
Albany Regional (MVP Arena)	#1 Michigan d. #2 Minnesota Duluth, 4-3	Sunday, March 29	5:30 p.m. ET	Box Score
Frozen Four
Las Vegas (T-Mobile Arena)	#3 Wisconsin d. #1 North Dakota, 2-1	Thursday, April 9	5 p.m. ET	Box Score
Las Vegas (T-Mobile Arena)	#2 Denver d. #1 Michigan, 4-3 (2OT)	Thursday, April 9	8:30 p.m. ET	Box Score
Las Vegas (T-Mobile Arena)	#2 Denver d. #3 Wisconsin, 2-1	Saturday, April 11	5:30 p.m. ET	Box Score

Big Ten Players Honored with National Awards

Unknown — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

LAS VEGAS – Five Big Ten hockey players achieved national recognition at the "Friday Night at the Frozen Four" awards ceremony, held in conjunction with the Hobey Baker Memorial Awards presentation at the Park MGM Presidio Ballroom.

Junior goaltender Trey Augustine of Michigan State received the Mike Richter Award, presented by the Hockey Commissioners Association. The award honors the top goaltender in collegiate hockey. Augustine led Big Ten goaltenders with a 2.11 goals-against average and .929 save percentage while posting a 24-9-1 record in 34 games. Augustine was named Big Ten Goaltender of the Year (for the second-straight season), earned All-Big Ten First Team honors and was named Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Worcester Regional.

Augustine becomes the fourth Big Ten netminder to win the Richter Award, joining Wisconsin’s Kyle McClellan (2024), Minnesota’s Jack LaFontaine (2021) and Notre Dame’s Cale Morris (2018).

Augustine was also one of five players who received AHCA/CCM All-America recognition. He was joined on the West First Team by Michigan State freshman forward Porter Martone and Michigan senior TJ Hughes. Michigan State senior forward Charlie Stramel and Penn State freshman forward Gavin McKenna were chosen to the West Second Team.

Wisconsin Moves on to NCAA Hockey Championship Game

Unknown — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy of Wisconsin Athletics

BRACKET

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Wisconsin has advanced to the NCAA Championship Game after defeating No. 1 seed North Dakota, 2-1, Thursday at the NCAA Semifinals in T-Mobile Arena. Wisconsin, which returns to the finals for the first time since 2010, will take on Denver of the NCHC at 5:30 p.m. ET Saturday on ESPN.

Wisconsin (24-12-2) scored twice in the first period on goals from Simon Tassy and Ryan Botterill and received outstanding goaltending from freshman Daniel Hauser, who stopped several point-blank shots. The Badgers become the fourth Big Ten team to reach the championship game and will look for their seventh title in program history.

Denver downed Michigan, 4-3, in double overtime in the second semifinal. Top-ranked Michigan (31-8-1) received goals from Josh Eernisse, TJ Hughes, and Jayden Perron as the Wolverines finished with a 52-26 shot advantage. Denver freshman goaltender Johnny Hicks made 49 saves on the night.

MSU's Nightingale Named Head Coach of 2027 U.S. National Junior Team

Michigan State Athletics — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Week 25 Hockey Release

Unknown — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• The Big Ten Conference has advanced two teams to the 2026 NCAA Frozen Four, to be held April 9 and April 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Thursday’s semifinals will pair No. 12/4 Wisconsin against No. 2/2 North Dakota at 5 p.m. ET, followed by No. 4/3 Denver versus No. 1/1 Michigan at 8:30 p.m. ET at T-Mobile Arena — home of the NHL Vegas Golden Knights. Both games will air on ESPN2. The NCAA will crown its 78th champion on Saturday with the title game beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. This is the first time the event has been held in Las Vegas. This year’s Frozen Four field has won a combined 33 national championships and includes the top-four schools with the most titles: Denver (10), Michigan (9), North Dakota (8) and Wisconsin (6).

• Wisconsin (23-12-2) vs. No. 2 seed North Dakota (29-9-1)
Wisconsin is appearing in its 12th Frozen Four, having captured its last national championship 20 years ago in Milwaukee. Wisconsin won the Worcester Regional two weeks ago, defeating Dartmouth, 5-1, in the regional semifinal and upsetting No. 1 seed Michigan State, 4-3, in the final. The Badgers scored twice in the final five minutes of regulation and secured their first Frozen Four berth since 2010 on captain Ben Dexheimer’s goal 24 seconds into overtime. He was named to the All-Regional Team along with Quinn Finley and Gavin Morrissey. Wisconsin owns an 87-73-13 lead all-time against North Dakota. The teams will be meeting for just the second time in seven seasons.

• Denver (27-11-3) vs. No. 1 seed Michigan (31-7-1)
Michigan has qualified for its NCAA-record 29th Frozen Four. The No. 1 seed overall, Michigan turned away Bentley, 5-1, and Minnesota Duluth, 4-3, to win the Albany Regional and earn a Frozen Fourth berth for the fourth time in five years. Earning spots on the All-Regional Team were Most Outstanding Player Jack Ivankovic along with T.J. Hughes, Ben Robertson and Garrett Schifsky. The Wolverines are looking for their first national title since 1998. Denver leads the all-time series against Michigan, 47-36-1, with the teams last meeting at the 2022 NCAA Semifinals, won by Denver, 3-2, in overtime.

• The Big Ten Conference has sent representatives to the Frozen Four five consecutive years: Michigan/Wisconsin (2026), Penn State (2025), Michigan (2024), Michigan/Minnesota (2023) and Michigan/Minnesota (2022). Since Big Ten Hockey was formed in 2013-14, the conference has qualified 13 teams for the Frozen Four. Three teams have advanced to the championship game as the conference looks for its first national champion.

Big Ten Appearances in the Frozen Four (since 2014)
Michigan — 2018, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026
Minnesota — 2014, 2022, 2023
Notre Dame — 2017, 2018
Ohio State — 2018
Penn State — 2025
Wisconsin — 2026

• Michigan senior forward TJ Hughes has been chosen as a Hat Trick Finalist for the Hobey Baker Memorial Award, given to the nation’s top collegiate player. Nationally, Hughes ranks second in total points (56), third in assists (35) and tenth in goals (21). He is also the NCAA’s active career points leader, having compiled 178 points (68-110) in 155 games. The Hobey Baker winner will be revealed at the Friday Night at the Frozen Four Awards Ceremony, to be held April 10 at 8 p.m. ET in the Park MGM Presidio Ballroom. The NHL Network will carry the event live.

Michigan's TJ Hughes Named Hobey Baker Hat Trick Finalist

Hobey Baker Memorial Award — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Three Big Ten Coaches Named Penrose Award Finalists

American Hockey Coaches Association (AHCA) — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Michigan and Wisconsin Advance to NCAA Frozen Four

Unknown — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. — Michigan and Wisconsin won NCAA hockey regionals over the weekend and will move on to the NCAA Frozen Four in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Wolverines have earned their NCAA-record 29th trip to the Frozen Four and the Badgers will be making their 12th appearance at the event.

The NCAA Frozen Four is scheduled for Thursday, April 9, and Saturday, April 11, at T-Mobile Arena.

The first semifinal will pair No. 12/12-ranked Wisconsin (23-12-2) against No. 2/2-ranked North Dakota (29-9-1) of the National Collegiate Hockey Conference at 5 p.m. ET on April 9. That will be followed by No. 4/4-ranked Denver (27-11-3) of the NCHC versus No. 1/1-ranked Michigan (31-7-1) at 8:30 p.m. ET. Both games will be carried on ESPN2. The championship game on April 11 is slated for a 5:30 p.m. ET puck drop on ESPN.

No. 1 seed Michigan turned away No. 2 seed Minnesota Duluth, 4-3, on Sunday to win the Albany (N.Y.) Regional at MVP Arena and earn a Frozen Fourth berth for the fourth time in five years.

No. 3 seed Wisconsin defeated No. 1 seed Michigan State, 4-3, in overtime on Saturday to win the Worcester (Mass.) Regional at the DCU Center. The Badgers scored twice in the final five minutes of regulation and secured their first Frozen Four berth since 2010 on captain Ben Dexheimer’s goal 24 seconds into overtime.

The semifinals berth for Michigan and Wisconsin mark the fifth-straight year the Big Ten Conference will have representation at the Frozen Four.

Wisconsin Wins Worcester Regional, Headed to Frozen Four

Wisconsin Athletics — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Week 24 Hockey Release

Unknown — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• The Big Ten Conference has qualified four teams for the 2026 NCAA Division I Men’s Hockey Championship after crowning its tournament champion on March 21. No. 2 seed Michigan set a record for goals in a championship game in a 7-3 win over No. 5 seed Ohio State before a sold-out crowd of 5,800 at Yost Ice Arena in Ann Arbor, Mich. The No. 1/1-ranked Wolverines received the conference’s automatic berth into the NCAA Tournament and are joined by No. 3/3 Michigan State, No. 10/9 Penn State and No. 12/12 Wisconsin, which received at-large berths. Michigan is the No. 1 seed overall and Michigan State the No. 3 seed overall in the 16-team field. The four teams selected matches a league record set in 2018, 2021, 2023, 2024 and 2025. The 78th NCAA Tournament begins this week with regional semifinals followed by regional finals. A look at the participating Big Ten teams:

• No. 4 seed Connecticut (20-12-5) vs. No. 1 seed Michigan State (25-8-2)
Thursday (1:30 p.m. ET) | Worcester Regional Semifinal | DCU Center
Michigan State is making its third-straight appearance in the NCAA postseason and its 30th overall. The Spartans are the last Big Ten team to win a national championship (2007). Adam Nightingale was named Big Ten Coach of the Year for the second time and features two conference award winners in Matt Basgall (Defensive Player of the Year) and Trey Augustine (Goaltender of the Year). Augustine is one of three finalists for the Mike Richter Award. Freshman Porter Martone and senior Charlie Stramel were named to the All-Big Ten First Team. No. 13/13 Connecticut finished third in the Hockey East standings and lost to Merrimack, 2-1, in the Hockey East Tournament Final. UConn and MSU are meeting for the first time.

• No. 3 seed Wisconsin (21-12-2) vs. No. 2 seed Dartmouth (23-7-4)
Thursday (5 p.m. ET) | Worcester Regional Semifinal | DCU Center
Wisconsin is making its second NCAA appearance in three seasons under Head Coach Mike Hastings. The Badgers will be playing in their 28th NCAA Tournament. Wisconsin’s defensive corps was recently honored with Big Ten honors as senior defenseman Ben Dexheimer was named to the All-Big Ten First Team while freshman blueliner Luke Osburn received All-Big Ten Honorable Mention and All-Freshman Team accolades. No. 8/8 Dartmouth is making its first NCAA appearance in 46 years after winning the ECAC Hockey Tournament with a 3-2 overtime victory over Princeton. The Big Green finished tied for second during the ECAC Hockey regular season. Wisconsin and Dartmouth will be meeting for the first time.

• No. 4 seed Bentley (23-11-5) vs. No. 1 seed Michigan (29-7-1)
Friday (5:30 p.m. ET) | Albany Regional Semifinal | MVP Arena
Michigan will participate in the NCAAs for the fifth time this decade and for the 42nd time overall, which ties the NCAA all-time record. Coach Brandon Naurato’s squad leads the nation in scoring, averaging 4.57 goals per game, and is led by senior forward T.J. Hughes, who was named Big Ten Player of the Year and Most Outstanding Player of the Big Ten Tournament. Hughes (153 GP, 67-108—175) also holds an 18-point lead as the NCAA’s leading active career scorer. No. 20/20 Bentley secured the Atlantic Hockey Double on Saturday, adding the conference tournament title to its regular season crown. Michigan is 3-0-0 lifetime against Bentley with the last meeting taking place in 2012.

• No. 3 seed Penn State (21-13-2) vs. No. 2 Minnesota Duluth (23-14-1)
Friday (9 p.m. ET) | Albany Regional Semifinal | MVP Arena
Penn State has advanced to the NCAAs for the third time in four years under Head Coach Guy Gadowsky. The Nittany Lions are making their fifth trip to the NCAA Tournament, having reached the Frozen Four last year. Forward Gavin McKenna was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year after becoming the first Penn Stater to win the conference scoring title. Freshman defenseman Jackson Smith, a 2025 NHL First Round Draft pick, received All-Big Ten Second Team honors along with McKenna. No. 6/6 Minnesota Duluth finished fourth in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference standings and lost to Denver, 4-3 in double overtime in the NCHC Tournament Final. Penn State and Minnesota Duluth are meeting for the first time.

Minnesota Hires Brett Larson to Lead Men's Hockey Program

Minnesota Athletics — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Four Big Ten Teams Qualify for the NCAA Hockey Tournament

Unknown — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

NCAA BRACKET

ROSEMONT, Ill. – Four Big Ten Conference teams have been selected to participate in the 2026 NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey Championship which begins Thursday. The four bids match a Big Ten record that occurred in 2018, 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025. Michigan (seeded No. 1 overall) earned an automatic berth while Michigan State (seeded No. 3 overall), Penn State, and Wisconsin received at-large berths into the 16-team field.

Michigan (29-7-1), which captured the Big Ten Tournament title on Saturday, is the No. 1 seed at the Albany (N.Y.) Regional and will host No. 4 seed Bentley (23-11-5), which won the Atlantic Hockey Tournament, on Friday, March 27, at 5:30 p.m. ET (ESPNU) at MVP Arena. The No. 1/1-ranked Wolverines are making their 42nd appearance in the tournament, tied for the most by any school.

Penn State (21-13-2) is also at the Albany Regional as the No. 3 seed and will face No. 2 seed Minnesota-Duluth (23-14-1), an at-large from the National Collegiate Hockey Conference, on Friday, March 27, at 9 p.m. (ESPN2). The No. 10/11-ranked Nittany Lions are making their fifth appearance in the NCAA postseason, having advanced to the Frozen Four last year. The Albany Regional Final is scheduled for Sunday, March 29.

Michigan State (25-8-2) is the No. 1 seed at the Worcester (Mass.) Regional and encounters No. 4 seed Connecticut (20-12-5), an at-large from Hockey East, on Thursday, March 26, at 1:30 p.m. ET (ESPN2) at the DCU Center. The No. 3/3-ranked Spartans, who won the Big Ten Championship, are making their 30th NCAA Tournament appearance and third in a row.

Wisconsin (21-12-2) will travel to the Worcester Regional as well as the No. 3 seed, squaring off against No. 2 seed Dartmouth (23-7-4), winner of the ECAC Hockey Tournament, on Thursday, March 26, at 5 p.m. ET (ESPNU). The No. 12/12th-ranked Badgers are making their 28th trip to the NCAAs having last appeared in 2024. The Worcester Regional Final is slated for Saturday, March 28.

The four regional champions advance to the NCAA Frozen Four, to be held April 9 and 11, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Michigan Wins the Big Ten Hockey Tournament

Unknown — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by Paul Barnick

BOX SCORE

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Top-ranked Michigan set a Big Ten Tournament record for most goals in a championship game in posting a 7-3 win over No. 19/19-ranked Ohio State Saturday night before a sold-out crowd of 5,800 at Yost Ice Arena. The Wolverines have now won three Big Ten Tournament titles in five years and a conference-high four overall.

Hosting a Big Ten final for the first time, No. 2 seed Michigan (29-7-1) broke open a 3-3 tie in the third period with four unanswered goals. TJ Hughes, who was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, scored the game-winner with 11:41 left in regulation and assisted on Jayden Perron’s weaving power play tally a minute, 25 seconds later. Seven different scorers lit the lamp for Michigan, which receives the conference’s automatic berth into next week’s NCAA Tournament. The 16-team field will be revealed tomorrow at 3:00 p.m. ET on ESPNU.

No. 5 seed Ohio State (14-21-2), the lowest seed to ever advance to the final, led on two occasions during its second-straight trip to the championship game. The Buckeyes placed forward Jake Karabela and defenseman William Smith on the all-tournament team, who were joined by four Michigan players — Hughes, Perron, defenseman Luca Fantilli and goaltender Jack Ivankovic.

All-TOURNAMENT TEAM:
F – TJ Hughes, Michigan
F – Jayden Perron, Michigan
F – Jake Karabela, Ohio State
D – Luca Fantilli, Michigan
D – William Smith, Ohio State
G – Jack Ivankovic, Michigan

MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER:
T.J. Hughes, F, Michigan

2026 Big Ten Hockey Tournament Central

Unknown — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

2026 Big Ten Hockey Tournament
March 11-21, 2026 • Campus Sites

Tickets | Tiebreakers
Standings | Statistics | Results | Record Book
@B1GHockey

Team Information
MICH | MSU | MINN | ND | OSU | PSU | WIS

	Quarterfinals, March 11 (single-elimination)
8 p.m. ET / Madison, Wis.	#5 Ohio State d. #4 Wisconsin, 7-1	Box Score \| Recap
7 p.m. ET / Ann Arbor, Mich.	#2 Michigan d. #7 Notre Dame, 6-1	Box Score \| Recap
7 p.m. ET / University Park, Pa.	#3 Penn State d. #6 Minnesota, 6-2	Box Score \| Recap
	Semifinals, March 14 (single-elimination)
7:30 p.m. ET/East Lansing, Mich.	#5 Ohio State d. #1 Michigan State, 3-2 (OT)	BTN \| Box Score \| Recap
5 p.m. ET/Ann Arbor, Mich.	#2 Michigan d. #3 Penn State, 5-2	BTN \| Box Score \| Recap
	Championship, March 21 (single-elimination)
8 p.m. ET/Ann Arbor, Mich.	#2 Michigan d. #5 Ohio State, 7-3	BTN \| Box Score \| Recap

MSU's Trey Augustine Named Richter Award Finalist

Hockey Commissioners Association (HCA) — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Week 23 Hockey Release

Unknown — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy of Ohio State Athletics

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• “The Game” takes on new meaning this Saturday when conference rivals No. 1/1 Michigan and No. 19/19 Ohio State meet in the championship game of the 2026 Big Ten Hockey Tournament. Puck drop is 8 p.m. ET at Yost Ice Arena in Ann Arbor, Mich., with the Big Ten Network carrying the game. The Wolverines are looking for their fourth Big Ten Tournament title, having won in 2016, 2022 and 2023. This will be Michigan’s sixth appearance in the final and its first time hosting. Ohio State is playing in its fourth final, and second straight, as the Buckeyes search for their first tournament crown.

No. 5 seed Ohio State (14-20-2) at No. 1 seed Michigan (28-7-1)
Ohio State is the lowest seed to reach the tournament championship game. Coach Steve Rohlik’s team advanced with a 7-1 quarterfinal win over No. 4 seed Wisconsin on March 11, then defeated No. 1 seed Michigan State in the semifinals, 3-2, in overtime on Saturday. Michigan used home ice to post a 6-1 quarterfinal victory over No. 7 seed Notre Dame last Wednesday and followed with a 5-2 semifinal win versus No. 3 seed Penn State on Saturday. The Wolverines are 12-0 all-time as the No. 2 seed.

Ohio State and Michigan have met three times in 12 years of tournament action:
2023 Semifinals — Michigan 7, Ohio State 3 — Ann Arbor, Mich.
2021 Quarterfinals — Michigan 4, Ohio State 0 — South Bend, Ind.
2018 Semifinals — Ohio State 3, Michigan 2 (OT) — Columbus, Ohio
Michigan swept the 2025-26 season series, 4-0-0, claiming 11 of 12 points.

• The Big Ten handed out its postseason awards on Wednesday. Michigan forward T.J. Hughes became the first senior to win the Big Ten Player of the Year Award. Michigan State senior defenseman Matt Basgall was tabbed Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and Michigan State junior Trey Augustine was selected Big Ten Goaltender of the Year for the second-straight season. Penn State forward Gavin McKenna earned the Big Ten Freshman of the Year Award after claiming the conference scoring title. Michigan State’s Adam Nightingale received Big Ten Coach of the Year honors for the second time. The All-Big Ten First Team consisted of Hughes, Michigan State’s Porter Martone and Charlie Stramel at forward; Basgall and Wisconsin’s Ben Dexheimer on defense, and Augustine in goal.

The Hobey Baker Memorial Award announced its Top 10 finalists on Wednesday. The Big Ten led all conferences with four candidates: Trey Augustine, T.J. Hughes, Gavin McKenna and Charlie Stramel. The Hobey Baker Hat Trick (three finalists) will be unveiled on April 2 with the winner announced on April 10 at the NCAA Frozen Four in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Bob Motzko to Leave Minnesota

Minnesota Athletics — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Big Ten Recognizes Winter Academic All-Big Ten Honorees

Unknown — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. - The Big Ten Conference recognized a total of 1,127 students on winter sports rosters who have been named to the Academic All-Big Ten Team Wednesday.

The list of honorees includes 83 men’s and 119 women’s basketball students, 98 men’s ice hockey students, 59 men’s and 146 women’s gymnastics students, 154 men’s and 251 women’s swim and dive students, and 217 wrestling students.

To be eligible for Academic All-Big Ten selection, students must be on a varsity team (as verified by being on the official squad list as of March 1 for fall sports), have been enrolled full time at the institution for a minimum of 12 months and carry a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 or higher.

Among the winter Academic All-Big Ten honorees, 30 had unblemished GPAs:

Men’s Basketball
Jacob Koch, Iowa, Sophomore, Business Direct Administration, Iowa City, Iowa

Women’s Basketball
Emma Shumate, Michigan State, Senior, Sustainable Parks, Recreation & Tourism, Dresden Ohio
Sammy White, Northwestern, Graduate Student, Sports Communication Cert, Timonium, Md.

Men’s Gymnastics
Jax Washburn, Illinois, Sophomore, Community Health, Portland, Ore.
Kellen Ryan, Penn State, Graduate Student, Engineering, Janesville, Wis.

Women’s Gymnastics
Chloe Cho, Illinois, Sophomore, Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Santa Clarita, Calif.
Aurelie Tran, Iowa, Sophomore, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Repentigny, Quebec, Canada
Kaia Vanney, Iowa, Senior, Interdepartmental Studies, Redondo Beach, Calif.
Eva Volpe, Iowa, Junior, Public Health, Pearland, Texas
Sarah Moraw, Minnesota, Graduate Student, Human Rsrc/Indus Rel M H R I R, Holland, Mich.
Megan Steensland, Minnesota, Graduate Student, Sport Management M Ed, Chaska, Minn.
Mika Webster-Longin, UCLA, Sophomore, History, Richmond, Calif.

Men’s Swim and Dive
Taye Ghadiali, Michigan, Graduate Student, Social Work, Warren, Mich.
Joe Polyak, Minnesota, Junior, Biochemistry B S, Iowa City, Iowa

Women’s Swim and Dive
Mary Kate Cavanaugh, Indiana, Sophomore, Finance, Longmont, Colo.
Brady kendall, Michigan, Graduate Student, Pharmacy PharmD, Canton, Mich.
Letitia Sim, Michigan, Senior, Applied Exercise Science, Spanish Fort, Ala.
Jade Roghair, Minnesota, Senior, Neuroscience B S, Iowa City, Iowa
Rachel Bockrath, Ohio State, Sophomore, Biology, Wilmington, Del.
Delia Lloyd, Ohio State, Sophomore, Biology, Toronto, Canada
Caroline Frazier, Purdue, Sophomore, Environmental & Ecological Engineering, Spring, Texas
Elena Dry, UCLA, Junior, Molecular, Cell and Development Biology, Raleigh, N.C.

Wrestling
Dylan Connell, Illinois, Graduate, MS: Management, Marengo, Ill.
Charlie Fifield, Illinois, Graduate, MS: Management, Rolling Meadows, Ill.
Taye Ghadiali, Michigan, Graduate Student, Social Work, Warren, Mich.
Andy Hampton, Michigan State, RS-Senior, Media Analytics, Rochester, Mich.
Drew Roberts, Minnesota, RS-Senior, Non Degree, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Lucas Cochran, Penn State, Graduate Student, Real Estate Law & Valuation, Perry, Utah
Patrick Adams, Rutgers, Graduate Student, Labor Studies and Employment Relations, Old Bridge, N.J.
Cale Anderson, Wisconsin, Graduate Student, M.S. Kinesiology, Viroqua, Wis.

Big Ten Conference Announces Hockey Postseason Awards

Unknown — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference announced the 2025-26 Big Ten Hockey postseason awards on Wednesday. This year’s winners were revealed live on BTN’s B1G Today.

The postseason honors included individual awards, All-Big Ten teams, the All-Freshman Team and Sportsmanship awards. Voting was conducted by conference head coaches and a media panel.

Michigan senior forward TJ Hughes was named Big Ten Player of the Year. The Hamilton, Ontario native hit the 50-point plateau with 19 goals and 31 assists, which ranks third nationally. He collected points in 29 of 36 games and is the first senior to be named Player of the Year.

Michigan State senior defenseman Matt Basgall was chosen Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. Basgall anchors the nation’s fourth-best scoring defense and has been called for just two penalties this season while averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game. He becomes the second recipient of the award for the Spartans.

Penn State forward Gavin McKenna received the Big Ten Freshman of the Year Award after claiming the Big Ten scoring title with 38 points (11 goals, 27 assists) in 24 conference games. McKenna is the first Nittany Lion to capture the scoring title and the first PSU player to be named top freshman.

Michigan State junior Trey Augustine was tabbed Big Ten Goaltender of the Year for the second-straight season. During the conference season Augustine sported league-best numbers for wins (16), goals-against average (2.21) and save percentage (.928). He is the second MSU goaltender to win the award.

Adam Nightingale of Michigan State was selected as Big Ten Coach of the Year for the second time. He led the Spartans to the Big Ten Championship, a Great Lakes Invitational title, and MSU to a No. 1 ranking for eight weeks.

The Big Ten also recognized seven Sportsmanship Award honorees. The students chosen are individuals who have distinguished through sportsmanship, academics, ethical behavior and citizenship.

2025-26 BIG TEN HOCKEY POSTSEASON AWARDS

PLAYER OF THE YEAR
TJ Hughes, Sr., F, Michigan

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Matt Basgall, Sr., D, Michigan State

GOALTENDER OF THE YEAR
Trey Augustine, Jr., G, Michigan State

FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR
Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, Penn State

COACH OF THE YEAR
Adam Nightingale, Michigan State

SCORING CHAMPION
Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, Penn State (38 points)

ALL-BIG TEN FIRST TEAM
F — TJ Hughes, Sr., Michigan
F — Porter Martone, Fr., Michigan State
F — Charlie Stramel, Sr., Michigan State
D — Matt Basgall, Sr., Michigan State
D — Ben Dexheimer, Sr., Wisconsin
G — Trey Augustine, Jr., Michigan State

ALL-BIG TEN SECOND TEAM
F — Michael Hage, So., Michigan
F — Brodie Ziemer, So., Minnesota
F — Gavin McKenna, Fr., Penn State
D — Tyler Duke, Sr., Michigan
D — Jackson Smith, Fr., Penn State
G — Jack Ivankovic, Fr., Michigan

ALL-BIG TEN HONORABLE MENTION
F — Daniel Russell, Sr., Michigan State
F — Danny Nelson, Jr., Notre Dame
F — Matt DiMarsico, Jr., Penn State
F — Aiden Fink, Jr., Penn State
D — Luke Mittelstadt, Sr., Minnesota
D — Paul Fischer, Jr., Notre Dame
D — Jarod Crespo, Sr., Penn State
D — Luke Osburn, Fr., Wisconsin
G — Josh Fleming, Fr., Penn State

BIG TEN ALL-FRESHMAN TEAM
F — Porter Martone, Fr., Michigan State
F — Jake Karabela, Fr., Ohio State
F — Gavin McKenna, Fr., Penn State +
D — Jackson Smith, Fr., Penn State
D — Luke Osburn, Fr., Wisconsin
G — Jack Ivankovic, Fr., Michigan

BIG TEN SPORTSMANSHIP AWARDS
Josh Eernisse, Sr., F, Michigan
Matt Basgall, Sr., D, Michigan State
Brody Lamb, Sr., F, Minnesota
Evan Werner, Jr., F, Notre Dame
James Hong, So., F, Ohio State
Jarod Crespo, Sr., D, Penn State
Ben Dexheimer, Sr., D, Wisconsin

+ unanimous selection

Michigan and Ohio State Reach Big Ten Hockey Tournament Final

Unknown — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy of Michigan Athletics

TOURNAMENT CENTRAL

ROSEMONT, lll. — No. 2 seed Michigan and No. 5 seed Ohio State won semifinal games on Saturday to advance to the Big Ten Hockey Tournament Championship Game, set for Saturday (March 21) in Ann Arbor, Mich. The 8 p.m. ET puck drop will be covered by the Big Ten Network.

Michigan (28-7-1) defeated No. 3 seed Penn State, 5-2, at Yost Ice Arena in Ann Arbor, Mich. The top-ranked Wolverines will appear in their sixth championship game with sights on a fourth conference tournament title.

Ohio State (14-20-2) downed No. 1 seed Michigan State, 3-2, in overtime at Munn Ice Arena in East Lansing, Mich. The victory avenged a double overtime loss to the Spartans on the same ice in last year’s championship game. The Buckeyes will make their fourth championship game appearance as they seek their first conference tournament title.

Michigan, Penn State, Ohio State Advance to Big Ten Semifinals

Unknown — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy of Ohio State Athletics

ROSEMONT, lll. — No. 2 seed Michigan, No. 3 seed Penn State and No. 5 seed Ohio State won single-elimination quarterfinal games as the Big Ten Hockey Tournament opened at three campus sites Wednesday evening. No. 1 seed Michigan State received a quarterfinals bye after winning the Big Ten regular season championship.

All three winning teams scored six-or-more goals. Michigan defeated Notre Dame, 6-1, in Ann Arbor, Mich., Penn State downed Minnesota, 6-2 in University Park, Pa., and Ohio State knocked off Wisconsin, 7-1, in Madison, Wis.

Tournament semifinals will be held Saturday on campus sites of higher-seeded teams. Both games will air live on the Big Ten Network.

2026 BIG TEN HOCKEY TOURNAMENT SEMIFINALS
Single-Elimination

#3 PENN STATE (21-12-2) at #2 MICHIGAN (27-7-1)
Yost Ice Arena, Ann Arbor, Mich.
Saturday, March 14 – 5 p.m. ET (BTN)

#5 OHIO STATE (13-20-2) at #1 MICHIGAN STATE (25-7-2)
Munn Ice Arena, East Lansing, Mich.
Saturday, March 14 – 7:30 p.m. ET (BTN)

The winners of the single-elimination semifinal games will meet in the Big Ten Tournament Championship Game on Saturday, March 21, at the highest remaining seed. The game will be broadcast on BTN.

Week 22 Hockey Release

Unknown — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy of Notre Dame Athletics

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• The 13th Big Ten Men’s Ice Hockey Tournament begins this week, featuring a new format that will shorten the event from three weeks to two. Quarterfinals, which used to be a best-of-three weekend series, are now single-elimination games to be held on Wednesday, March 11, involving seeds No. 2-7. Those games will be streamed on B1G+. Semifinals are slated for Saturday, March 14, with the championship game following on Saturday, March 21 — all three games will appear on the Big Ten Network.

No. 7 seed Notre Dame (9-22-5) at No. 2 seed Michigan (26-7-1)
Notre Dame enters the postseason having gone unbeaten in six of its last eight games (4-2-2) under first-year Head Coach Brock Sheahan. The Fighting Irish have played in four-straight overtime contests, winning the last three. Michigan, the consensus No. 1 ranked team, won all four games against Notre Dame this season and is 3-0 all-time against the Irish in the Big Ten Tournament.

No. 6 seed Minnesota (11-21-3) at No. 3 seed Penn State (20-12-2)
No. 10/10 Penn State looks for its second Big Ten postseason crown to go with the banner it won in 2017. The Nittany Lions took three of four games against the Golden Gophers this season, including both games at Pegula Ice Arena. Minnesota is a road team in the Big Ten Tournament for the first time since 2021, having played its last 10 tourney games on home ice. Penn State and Minnesota have split six games in the Big Ten Tournament.

No. 5 seed Ohio State (12-20-2) at No. 4 seed Wisconsin (21-11-2)
No. 10/11 Wisconsin and Ohio State are meeting for the third consecutive season in the Big Ten Quarterfinals. Ohio State has won the last two postseason series between the teams and owns a 6-4 edge all-time in the Big Ten Tournament. OSU Head Coach Steve Rohlik owns more Big Ten Tournament wins (18) than any other coach. The Badgers exploded for 12 goals last week at Penn State and search for their first Big Ten Tournament championship since winning the inaugural event in 2014.

No. 3/3 Michigan State receives a quarterfinals bye after claiming its third-straight Big Ten regular season championship on March 5. Three-straight is a Spartan record and marks only the second time it’s happened in Big Ten Hockey. MSU has won the last two Big Ten Tournaments and sports a 6-1 record over its last seven tourney contests.

Freshman Gavin McKenna became the first Penn State player to win the Big Ten scoring title on Friday, finishing the conference schedule with 38 points (11 goals, 27 assists) in 24 contests. He finished two points ahead of Michigan’s T.J. Hughes and Michigan State freshman Porter Martone.

Notre Dame and Wisconsin Collect Three Stars Honors

Unknown — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference has announced its Three Stars of the Week for ice hockey games played March 5-6, 2026.

First Star
Paul Fischer, Notre Dame
Jr. – D – River Forest, Ill. – U.S. National Team Development Program

Recorded four points (goal, three assists) to lead Big Ten defensemen in scoring last week, playing a role in Notre Dame’s road sweep of Ohio State
Scored game-tying goal Friday night with 0.1 seconds left in regulation; Notre Dame went on to a 4-3 overtime victory
Started the series with two assists and a plus-three rating in Thursday’s 5-4 overtime win
Becomes the first Notre Dame defenseman to earn First Star honors since Drew Bavaro (February 28, 2023)
Last Irish player named First Star: Cole Knuble (October 15, 2024)

Second Star
Gavin Morrissey, Wisconsin
So. – F – Rochester Hills, Mich. – Fargo (USHL)

Compiled three points (two goals, assist) in Wisconsin’s road sweep of No. 6/6 Penn State, helping the Badgers secure home ice for the Big Ten Tournament Quarterfinals
Scored a power play goal in Thursday’s 7-3 victory and contributed a goal and assist in the Badgers’ 5-2 win on Friday
Finished with a 60.3 faceoff win percentage, controlling 35 of 58 draws from the dot
Reached 30 points on the season for the second-straight year
Last Wisconsin Star recipient: Eli Pulver (February 24, 2026)

Third Star
Evan Werner, Notre Dame
Jr. – F – Flower Mound, Texas – Michigan (NCAA)

Amassed two goals and two assists in leading Notre Dame to a sweep of Ohio State to close the regular season
Scored the overtime game-winning goal to cap a four-point night in a 5-4 win on Thursday
Skated on a line that accumulated 10 points against the Buckeyes
Finished with a plus-five rating for the series; leads the Irish with 17 goals and 33 points
Collects the fourth weekly award of his career and his second of the season, was named Third Star on February 10, 2026

Team rankings are from the USCHO.com and USA Hockey polls respectively.

2025-26 Big Ten Hockey Three Stars
Oct. 7
First Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Third Star: Christian Fitzgerald, Sr., F, WIS

Oct. 14
First Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Felix Caron, So., F, OSU
Third Star: Jack Ivankovic, Fr., G, MICH

Oct. 21
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Daniel Hauser, Fr., G, WIS
Third Star: Matt Basgall, Sr., D, MSU

Oct. 28
First Star: Tommi Männistö, Jr., F, MSU
Second Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Nov. 4
First Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Second Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH

Nov. 11
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Luca Di Pasquo, Jr., G, MINN
Third Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU

Nov. 18
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Adam Eisele, Gr., F, OSU
Third Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU

Nov. 25
First Star: TJ Hughes, Sr., F, MICH
Second Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Third Star: Ben Dexheimer, Sr., D, WIS

Dec. 2
First Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Javon Moore, Fr., F, MINN
Third Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH

Dec. 9
First Star: Brodie Ziemer, So., F, MINN
Second Star: Max Montes, Jr., F, OSU
Third Star: Quinn Finley, Jr., F, WIS

Dec. 30
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Third Star: Anthony Romani, Fr., F, MSU

Jan. 6
First Star: Jarod Crespo, Sr., D, PSU
Second Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Aiden Fink, Jr., F, PSU

Jan. 13
First Star: Nick Moldenhauer, Jr., F, MICH
Second Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU
Third Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU

Jan. 20
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Stephen Peck, Fr., G, MICH
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Jan. 27
First Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU
Second Star: Dane Dowiak, Jr., F, PSU
Third Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND

Feb. 3
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Erik Påhlsson, So., F, MINN
Third Star: TJ Hughes, Sr., F, MICH

Feb. 10
First Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU
Second Star: Luke Osburn, Fr., D, WIS
Third Star: Evan Werner, Jr., F, ND

Feb. 17
First Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Nicholas Kempf, So., G, ND
Third Star: Reese Laubach, Jr., F, PSU

Feb. 24
First Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU
Second Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU
Third Star: Eli Pulver, So., G, WIS

March 3
First Star: Kristoffer Eberly, Jr., G, OSU
Second Star: Danny Nelson, Jr., F, ND
Third Star: Max Montes, Jr., F, OSU

March 10
First Star: Paul Fischer, Jr., D, ND
Second Star: Gavin Morrissey, So., F, WIS
Third Star: Evan Werner, Jr., F, ND

Bracket Announced for 2026 Big Ten Hockey Tournament

Unknown — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference released on Friday the bracket for the 2026 Big Ten Hockey Tournament. This year’s event has a new format, shortened to two weeks with all games single-elimination. Games will continue to be hosted on campus by higher-seeded teams.

Michigan State captured the Big Ten regular season title on Thursday to claim the No. 1 seed. The 13th Big Ten Tournament begins March 11 with a single-elimination quarterfinal round. No. 2 seed Michigan (26-7-1) will host No. 7 seed Notre Dame (9-22-5), No. 3 seed Penn State (20-12-2) will entertain No. 6 seed Minnesota (11-21-3) and No. 4 seed Wisconsin (21-11-2) will host No. 5 seed Ohio State (12-20-2).

As the top-seeded team, Michigan State (25-7-2) will have a bye to the single-elimination semifinals, which are scheduled for March 14. The highest-seeded team advancing from the quarterfinals will host the second-highest advancing team, while the lowest-seeded advancing team will play at Michigan State.

The highest-seeded team remaining after the semifinals will host the single-elimination championship game on Saturday, March 21.

The quarterfinals will be streamed on B1G+ with the semifinals and championship game carried by the Big Ten Network.

The tournament champion will receive the conference’s automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

2026 BIG TEN HOCKEY TOURNAMENT QUARTERFINALS
March 11 | Single-Elimination

#7 NOTRE DAME at #2 MICHIGAN
Yost Ice Arena, Ann Arbor, Mich.
Wednesday, March 11 — 7 p.m. ET (B1G+)

#6 MINNESOTA at #3 PENN STATE
Pegula Ice Arena, University Park, Pa.
Wednesday, March 11 — 7 p.m. ET (B1G+)

#5 OHIO STATE AT #4 WISCONSIN
Kohl Center, Madison, Wis.
Wednesday, March 11 — 8 p.m. ET (B1G+)

Michigan State Wins Big Ten Hockey Championship Outright

Unknown — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by Michael Caples / Courtesy of Michigan State Athletics

ROSEMONT, lll. — No. 2/3-ranked Michigan State defeated Minnesota, 7-1, Thursday evening to clinch the Big Ten Hockey Championship outright. The Spartans have won three-straight Big Ten regular season hockey titles for the first time in school history.

Michigan State (25-7-1, 16-6-1 Big Ten), which concludes its regular season tomorrow night, earns the top seed and receives a quarterfinals bye for the Big Ten Tournament, which begins Wednesday. The Spartans will host a semifinal game on Saturday, March 14, in East Lansing, Mich.

Penn State's McKenna Named HCA Rookie of the Month

Hockey Commissioners Association (HCA) — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Week 21 Hockey Release

Unknown — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by Brad Rempel / Courtesy of Ohio State Athletics

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• The final week of the regular season will provide plenty of suspense as Michigan and Michigan State contend for the Big Ten Championship. Michigan is the leader in the clubhouse, having finished conference play last week. The Wolverines – the new consensus No. 1 in the polls – are seeking their first Big Ten regular season title. No. 2/3 Michigan State controls its destiny, needing two points to earn a share of the title and three points to win outright. The Big Ten Championship has been shared only once before when Michigan State and Minnesota tied last season. The Spartans are looking for their third-straight conference crown, a feat matched only by Minnesota, which won four-straight conference championships from 2014-17.

• The final conference series for 2025-26 feature No. 2/3 Michigan State at Minnesota, No. 11/11 Wisconsin at No. 6/6 Penn State and Notre Dame at rv/- Ohio State. A home playoff spot for the Big Ten Quarterfinals is also on the line this week. Wisconsin holds a six-point edge over Ohio State for home ice with the Buckeyes owning the tiebreaker. Michigan will host Simon Fraser in an exhibition on Thursday.

• Michigan took over the top spot in the USCHO.com and USA Hockey national polls on Monday, reclaiming the honor it held for 10 weeks. This is the 19th-straight week that either Michigan or Michigan State has occupied the No. 1 position in both polls.

• The conference scoring title, determined by total points in league play, is coming down to the wire. Michigan senior T.J. Hughes and Penn State freshman Gavin McKenna top the scoring chart with 36 points, three points ahead of Michigan State’s Porter Martone. No Penn State player has won the scoring crown. Four freshmen have captured Big Ten scoring titles, the most recent being Minnesota’s Logan Cooley and Jimmy Snuggerud during the 2022-23 season. The only senior to lead the conference in scoring was Michigan’s Zach Hyman in 2014-15.

• Michigan State and Ohio State made Big Ten history on Saturday in a 3-3 overtime tie. A shootout lasting 13 rounds (and won by MSU) set a new conference record, breaking the old mark of 10 rounds established by Ohio State and Wisconsin in March 2015. Saturday’s shootout was the third-longest in NCAA history.

• Next week’s Big Ten Tournament will have a new look as the postseason event is shortened from three weeks to two weeks. The quarterfinals, previously played as best-of-three series over a weekend, will now be single-elimination games held on Wednesday to open the tournament. Single-elimination semifinals and the ensuring championship game will be played on consecutive Saturdays (March 14 and March 21) at campus sites. The tournament champion will receive the conference’s automatic berth into the NCAA Tournament.

Ohio State and Notre Dame Awarded Three Stars Honors

Unknown — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference has announced its Three Stars of the Week for ice hockey games played February 26-28, 2026.

First Star
Kristoffer Eberly, Ohio State
Jr. – G – Pinckney, Mich. – Green Bay (USHL)

Allowed just two even-strength goals to help Ohio State claim four of six points against top-ranked Michigan State on the road; finished with 56 saves for the series
Held the nation’s fifth-highest scoring team (averaging 3.83 goals per game) to four goals, two of which came on the power play; finished with a 1.94 goals-against average
Made 11 saves in the third period, one in overtime, and stopped 10 of 13 shootout attempts in a 3-3 overtime tie on Saturday
Receives his second career Star Award, was named a Third Star on December 10, 2024
Last Buckeye named First Star: Sam Hillebrandt (February 10, 2026)

Second Star
Danny Nelson, Notre Dame
Jr. – F – Maple Grove, Minn. – U.S. National Team Development Program

Compiled three points as Notre Dame went unbeaten with a tie and a win against No. 5/5-ranked Penn State
Scored two goals in Notre Dame’s 4-3 overtime win on Senior Night
Finished the weekend series with a 57.9 percent faceoff rate, winning 33 of 57 draws
The two-time World Juniors gold medalist earns his first Big Ten weekly accolade
Last Fighting Irish Star recipient: Nicholas Kempf (Second Star, February 17, 2026)

Third Star
Max Montes, Ohio State
Jr. – F – Hartland, Wis. – Dubuque (USHL)

Shared Big Ten scoring honors with four points (two goals, two assists) in Ohio State’s series win (1-0-1) over No. 1/1-ranked Michigan State
Tallied two goals and an assist in a 5-1 win on Friday in East Lansing
Registered a 50.0 shooting percentage, a plus-two rating, and a blocked shot
Secures his second Big Ten weekly award of the season, having been named a Second Star on December 9, 2025
Captures the seventh Star Award of the season for the Buckeyes

Team rankings are from the USCHO.com and USA Hockey polls respectively.

2025-26 Big Ten Hockey Three Stars
Oct. 7
First Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Third Star: Christian Fitzgerald, Sr., F, WIS

Oct. 14
First Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Felix Caron, So., F, OSU
Third Star: Jack Ivankovic, Fr., G, MICH

Oct. 21
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Daniel Hauser, Fr., G, WIS
Third Star: Matt Basgall, Sr., D, MSU

Oct. 28
First Star: Tommi Männistö, Jr., F, MSU
Second Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Nov. 4
First Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Second Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH

Nov. 11
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Luca Di Pasquo, Jr., G, MINN
Third Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU

Nov. 18
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Adam Eisele, Gr., F, OSU
Third Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU

Nov. 25
First Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH
Second Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Third Star: Ben Dexheimer, Sr., D, WIS

Dec. 2
First Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Javon Moore, Fr., F, MINN
Third Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH

Dec. 9
First Star: Brodie Ziemer, So., F, MINN
Second Star: Max Montes, Jr., F, OSU
Third Star: Quinn Finley, Jr., F, WIS

Dec. 30
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Third Star: Anthony Romani, Fr., F, MSU

Jan. 6
First Star: Jarod Crespo, Sr., D, PSU
Second Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Aiden Fink, Jr., F, PSU

Jan. 13
First Star: Nick Moldenhauer, Jr., F, MICH
Second Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU
Third Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU

Jan. 20
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Stephen Peck, Fr., G, MICH
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Jan. 27
First Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU
Second Star: Dane Dowiak, Jr., F, PSU
Third Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND

Feb. 3
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Erik Påhlsson, So., F, MINN
Third Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH

Feb. 10
First Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU
Second Star: Luke Osburn, Fr., D, WIS
Third Star: Evan Werner, Jr., F, ND

Feb. 17
First Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Nicholas Kempf, So., G, ND
Third Star: Reese Laubach, Jr., F, PSU

Feb. 24
First Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU
Second Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU
Third Star: Eli Pulver, So., G, WIS

March 3
First Star: Kristoffer Eberly, Jr., G, OSU
Second Star: Danny Nelson, Jr., F, ND
Third Star: Max Montes, Jr., F, OSU

Big Ten Receives 2026 NCAA/MOAA Opportunities & Impact Award

Unknown — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana -- The Big Ten Conference has been named the Division I winner of the 2026 NCAA/MOAA Opportunities and Impact Award, the NCAA and Minority Opportunities Athletic Association — an affiliate of the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics — announced Thursday.

READ: NCAA and MOAA announce 2026 Opportunities and Impact Award recipients

The award recognizes and celebrates the initiatives, programs and efforts of athletics departments and conference offices in Divisions I, II and III that embrace environments of belonging and well-being and elevate the student-athlete voice in intercollegiate athletics communities. NCAA and MOAA representatives will present the awards June 7-10 in Las Vegas during the MOAA Symposium.

"We're proud to accept this honor on behalf of our 18 schools, whose support makes these initiatives possible," Big Ten Conference Commissioner Tony Petitti said.

Omar Brown, Big Ten senior vice president for community and impact, added, "This humbling recognition is a direct result of the leadership and alignment we have from Commissioner Petitti, throughout the conference office, and in collaboration with our campuses. Big Ten student-athletes always are aiming for excellence in competition, in the classroom and in their communities. We will continue to build on this foundation to create transformational opportunities for their development and deliver impact to the many locales we call home across the nation throughout the year."

The Big Ten Conference continues to engage, educate and empower its student-athletes, coaches, administrators and its broader community base with programs, initiatives and engagements that make a difference and encourage positive change. For four years, student-athletes from Big Ten schools have traveled to Alabama for an immersive journey that included learning about the Civil Rights Movement, visits to historic sites, community service projects and panel sessions with local leaders. The Big Ten has also added new elements to the transformative experience each year to deepen understanding and inspire civic responsibility.

WATCH: Big Ten Community & Impact makes a difference

Additionally, the conference creates leadership opportunities for its student-athletes. It partners with James Russell Lowell Elementary School in Indianapolis, connecting its 18 member schools with classrooms that include mentorship and encouragement via virtual meetings.

Another one of its many initiatives are structured conversations with administrators, coaches, athletes and employees to gather feedback and to inform future strategies. Examples include conducting student-athlete experience exit surveys and hosting standing committees, commissions and leadership councils to discuss progress, share feedback and assess strategic alignment. The conference also hosts numerous inclusive programs such as United as One, the B1G Fellows Program, the Student-Athlete Issues Commission, The Women's Volleyball Mentorship Program and the CBS Sports Ambassador Program & Sports Journalism Initiative. The conference also promotes several awards programs, which includes the Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award to recognize student-athletes who demonstrate leadership, service and volunteerism.

WATCH: Indiana honorees receive their Jackie Robinson Award jackets

WATCH: Purdue's Devin Mockobee dons his jacket while being recognized at Boilermakers basketball game

Along with the Big Ten, Saint Michael's College athletics department was recognized in Division II, and Occidental College's athletics department was the Division III honoree.

"This honor is an acknowledgment of NCAA member schools and conference offices that intentionally create spaces and opportunities for all student-athletes, coaches and administrators to feel seen, heard and valued," said Felicia Martin, NCAA senior vice president of inclusion, education and community engagement. "It is important to recognize these outstanding recipients who diligently embrace a commitment to positively impact their athletic communities and make a significant difference for all humanity."

"Congratulations to this year's recipients," said Timothy Wise, MOAA president and assistant general manager at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. "The outstanding work by the winners showcases the commitment to providing opportunities in the ever-changing landscape and making a significant impact on their campus and in conference communities. Each of the winners is worthy of this honor, and MOAA looks forward to partnering with the NCAA to recognize these achievements at the 2026 MOAA Symposium in June."

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Week 20 Hockey Release

Unknown — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by Jamie Squire / Getty Images

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• The penultimate week of conference play finds just one point separating first place Michigan and second place Michigan State in the chase for the Big Ten Championship. No. 2/2 Michigan plays its final conference games this weekend, taking on Minnesota in a series that starts tonight. Michigan has won both meetings against Minnesota this season and is a victory away from setting a program record for Big Ten wins in a season. Minnesota’s last three games have been decided by a goal or less. BTN will provide coverage of both games from Ann Arbor. No. 1/1 Michigan State, winners in nine of its last 10 games, will host Ohio State, which is making its first trip to Munn Ice Arena since last year’s thrilling double overtime Big Ten Championship Game (won by MSU). The teams split a January series in Columbus. Both games of the series will air on BTN. No. 5/5 Penn State, still in the hunt for the Big Ten title, travels to Notre Dame for a pair of games streaming on Peacock. Penn State is on course for its best conference placing since winning the title in 2019-20 while Notre Dame closes out its home schedule. No. 12/13 Wisconsin is idle this week.

• Penn State set a bevy of records in its 11-4 win over Ohio State on Feb. 20. The team’s goal total was the most for a Big Ten Conference game, surpassing the mark of 10 accomplished twice by Michigan. PSU’s Gavin McKenna set a conference game record for assists (7), shattering the old mark of four held by 16 players. The seven assists was also an all-time record, eclipsing the old standard of six shared by six players. McKenna’s eight points surpassed the conference record of five set by 14 players. It was the highest point total for a Division I player in 39 years according to College Hockey News and ranks third-best all-time among Big Ten players. McKenna’s weekend accomplishments, which included an overtime game-winner on Saturday, resulted in Big Ten First Star of the Week honors for the freshman forward.

• Six Big Ten alumni helped the United States Men’s Olympic Hockey Team capture its first gold medal in 46 years with a 2-1 overtime win over Canada Sunday in Milan, Italy. Quinn Hughes (Michigan, 2017-19) led Team USA in points (8) and ice time while Zach Werenski (Michigan, 2014-16) was the team’s co-leader in plus/minus (+8). Dylan Larkin (Michigan, 2014-15) scored two goals and was joined by Kyle Connor (Michigan, 2015-16) as the first group of Wolverines to win hockey gold. Former teammates Brock Faber (Minnesota, 2020-23), who finished a +7, and Jackson LaCombe (Minnesota, 2019-23) are just three seasons removed from their playing days in the Big Ten. Another Golden Gopher, Erik Haula (Minnesota, 2010-13), registered the second-most goals and points for Finland, which won the bronze medal.

• Wisconsin’s 4-1 win over Michigan on Friday improved the Badgers’ status in the NCAA Power Index (NPI). Wisconsin moved up two spots to 13th place over the weekend while Michigan State (first), Michigan (second) and Penn State (fifth) remained entrenched at their current spots. The NPI is a formula-based ranking system that helps determine the NCAA postseason field.

Discover, Big Ten Present Custom Jackets To Jackie Robinson Award Honorees

Unknown — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – Presenting sponsor Discover will deliver custom letterwinner jackets to all 36 institutional winners of the 2025-26 Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award, the Big Ten announced Wednesday. Each university’s male and female honoree will receive a customized, one-of-one gift featuring unique school elements and visuals.

The first two custom jackets were presented in December at the Discover Big Ten Football Championship Game to 2025 national winners Dillon Fontus, from Maryland football, and Iowa wrestler Nanea Estrella.

Both of last year’s winners, and Sonya Pankey Robinson (Jackie Robinson’s granddaughter), attended the game as guests of Discover, seeing Indiana claim the title at Lucas Oil Stadium on their way to a perfect 16-0 campaign and CFP National Championship. The 2026 national winners will be announced later this spring from the cohort of 36 campus recipients.

In November, the Big Ten Conference announced the 36 student-athletes selected as institutional winners of the 2025-26 Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award presented by Discover. Now in its second year, the honor was created to recognize Big Ten student-athletes who strive to have a positive impact within their community in addition to excellence in competition.

Institution	Honoree	Sport
Illinois	TJ Griffin	Football
Illinois	Tali Joelson	Gymnastics
Indiana	Tyler Lillard	Wrestling
Indiana	Kristina Vincic	Track & Field
Iowa	Ava Bayless	Wrestling
Iowa	Will Ryan	Cross Country \| Track & Field
Maryland	Joey Schneck	Wrestling
Maryland	Madeline Komoroski	Gymnastics
Michigan	Kevin Kearns	Lacrosse
Michigan	Zoë Bormet	Field Hockey
Michigan State	Maddie Lawlor	Field Hockey
Michigan State	Jalen Thompson	Football
Minnesota	Charlie Sutherland	Baseball
Minnesota	Niamya (Nia) Holloway	Basketball
Nebraska	Katelyn Caneda	Softball
Nebraska	Michael Booker III	Football
Northwestern	Kansas Robinson	Softball
Northwestern	Najee Story	Football
Ohio State	Caleb Downs	Football
Ohio State	Makenna Webster	Ice Hockey \| Field Hockey
Oregon	Matt Bedford	Football
Oregon	Blessyn McMorris	Acrobatics & Tumbling
Penn State	Nick Dawkins	Football
Penn State	Elise DeWan	Field Hockey
Purdue	Devin Mockobee	Football
Purdue	Emma Bailey	Softball
Rutgers	Jude Essuman	Soccer
Rutgers	Caitlin Collins	Lacrosse
UCLA	Jordan Robinson	Track & Field
UCLA	Karson Gordon	Football \| Track & Field
USC	Maribel Flores	Soccer
USC	Robert Gref	Diving
Washington	Franck Kepnang	Basketball
Washington	Rhonda Newton	Track & Field
Wisconsin	Rico Hallman	Football
Wisconsin	Erin Connolly	Soccer

In recognition of their achievement and as an expression of the conference’s appreciation, each of the 36 campus winners will receive a medal bearing the likeness of Jackie Robinson and the logo of the Big Ten Conference in addition to their custom jacket.

WATCH: Indiana honorees receive their Jackie Robinson Award jackets

WATCH: Purdue's Devin Mockobee dons his jacket while being honored at Boilermakers basketball game

WATCH: Big Ten Community & Impact makes a difference

Jackie Robinson was a standout student-athlete at UCLA, where he was the school’s first four-sport letter winner, excelling in football, basketball, track and field, and baseball. Beyond his athletic prowess, he continues to be recognized and honored for his contributions off the field: integrating Major League Baseball and his lifelong commitment to social justice. He is the embodiment of the Big Ten's mission to develop strong student leaders, and this program honors his legacy and core values of courage, determination, teamwork, persistence, integrity, citizenship, justice, commitment, and excellence. As Jackie famously said, “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.”

“It is our privilege and great honor to bestow this award in Jackie’s name upon these deserving Big Ten student-athletes and to express our appreciation for the support of the Jackie Robinson Foundation,” said Big Ten Conference Commissioner Tony Petitti.

Honorees were selected based on the following criteria:

Demonstrated Impact: Significant and tangible contributions to community projects or causes, including measurable outcomes or positive changes resulting from their involvement.
Collaboration and Teamwork: Ability to work effectively with others, including peers, organizations, and community members, to achieve common goals and enhance community impact.
Consistency and Commitment: Ongoing and consistent participation in community service activities over an extended period of time.
Visibility and Advocacy: Efforts to raise awareness and advocate for important groups or causes, leveraging their platform to promote positive change and engage others.

"The Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award celebrates Jackie’s legacy of excellence in community service,” said Sonya Pankey Robinson, Jackie’s first grandchild as well as Director and board member of the Jackie Robinson Foundation. "We are proud to recognize 36 outstanding men and women for the incredible impact they make in their community."

"Our student-athletes make significant contributions through competition, academics, and community impact,” said Big Ten Senior Vice President, Community & Impact, Omar Brown. “This award allows the Big Ten to recognize these efforts in improving communities, just as we do with their other athletic and academic achievements. Jackie Robinson embodies this award and our goal to honor student-athletes who positively affect others."

The Big Ten Conference’s commitment to athletics, academics and service goes back to the conference’s founding. Coupling the academic goals set forth by leaders of the charter members of the conference with their steadfast commitment to athletics, the conference instituted the Big Ten Medal of Honor in 1915, the first award to demonstrate support for the educational emphasis placed on intercollegiate athletics. It is awarded annually by each member institution to one male and one female student of the graduating class who has attained the greatest proficiency in scholarship and athletics.

Penn State, Michigan State, Wisconsin Earn Three Stars Awards

Unknown — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference has announced its Three Stars of the Week for ice hockey games played February 19-21, 2026.

First Star
Gavin McKenna, Penn State
Fr. – F – Whitehorse, Yukon – Medicine Hat (WHL)

Compiled an NCAA-best eight assists and 10 points in No. 6/6-ranked Penn State’s home sweep of Ohio State
His eight points (goal, seven assists) in Friday’s 11-4 win is the most by a Division I player in 39 years according to College Hockey News
Set records for most assists and points in a Big Ten Conference game; his points total tied the third-highest mark all-time overall among Big Ten players
Helped PSU set a record for most goals (11) in a Big Ten contest (dating to 2013-14)
Scored the overtime game-winning goal in Saturday’s series finale
Collects his fourth Big Ten weekly award of the season (2-First Stars, 2-Third Stars)

Second Star
Porter Martone, Michigan State
Fr. – F – Peterborough, Ontario – Brampton (OHL)
2025 NHL Draft: 1st Rd, 6th overall, Philadelphia Flyers

Led Big Ten players with four goals on the week, sparking No. 1/1-ranked Michigan State to a sweep of Notre Dame
Netted three goals in Michigan State’s 8-2 win on Saturday, providing the third hat trick of the season for the Spartans
Finished the weekend with 11 shots on goal and plus-four rating
Collects his third Big Ten weekly award of the season (2-Second Stars, 1-Third Star)
Last Spartan to win a Star Award: Charlie Stramel (February 3, 2026)

Third Star
Eli Pulver, Wisconsin
So. – G – Vancouver, B.C. – Minnesota State (NCAA)

Making his eighth start of the season, stopped 22 of 23 shots to lead No. 13/14-ranked Wisconsin to a 4-1 win over No. 2/2-ranked Michigan Friday at the Kohl Center
Held the nation’s top scoring team — averaging 4.53 goals per game — to three goals (two even-strength) on the weekend
Produced a 1.54 goals-against average and a .936 save percentage
Won his third game of the season against a top-two ranked opponent
Becomes the seventh Wisconsin player to capture a Star Award this season

Team rankings are from the USCHO.com and USA Hockey polls respectively.

2025-26 Big Ten Hockey Three Stars
Oct. 7
First Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Third Star: Christian Fitzgerald, Sr., F, WIS

Oct. 14
First Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Felix Caron, So., F, OSU
Third Star: Jack Ivankovic, Fr., G, MICH

Oct. 21
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Daniel Hauser, Fr., G, WIS
Third Star: Matt Basgall, Sr., D, MSU

Oct. 28
First Star: Tommi Männistö, Jr., F, MSU
Second Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Nov. 4
First Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Second Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH

Nov. 11
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Luca Di Pasquo, Jr., G, MINN
Third Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU

Nov. 18
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Adam Eisele, Gr., F, OSU
Third Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU

Nov. 25
First Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH
Second Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Third Star: Ben Dexheimer, Sr., D, WIS

Dec. 2
First Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Javon Moore, Fr., F, MINN
Third Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH

Dec. 9
First Star: Brodie Ziemer, So., F, MINN
Second Star: Max Montes, Jr., F, OSU
Third Star: Quinn Finley, Jr., F, WIS

Dec. 30
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Third Star: Anthony Romani, Fr., F, MSU

Jan. 6
First Star: Jarod Crespo, Sr., D, PSU
Second Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Aiden Fink, Jr., F, PSU

Jan. 13
First Star: Nick Moldenhauer, Jr., F, MICH
Second Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU
Third Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU

Jan. 20
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Stephen Peck, Fr., G, MICH
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Jan. 27
First Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU
Second Star: Dane Dowiak, Jr., F, PSU
Third Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND

Feb. 3
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Erik Påhlsson, So., F, MINN
Third Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH

Feb. 10
First Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU
Second Star: Luke Osburn, Fr., D, WIS
Third Star: Evan Werner, Jr., F, ND

Feb. 17
First Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Nicholas Kempf, So., G, ND
Third Star: Reese Laubach, Jr., F, PSU

Feb. 24
First Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU
Second Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU
Third Star: Eli Pulver, So., G, WIS

New “We Are Here” spot highlights student success, economic impact

Unknown — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – Big Ten universities’ leading role in educating students and driving economic prosperity is featured the latest edition in the “We Are Here” series of :30 ads .

The new ad began airing during Big Ten basketball games and other winter sports in January. Students and alumni take center stage, sharing with viewers what their lives look like and what they have been able to accomplish thanks to their Big Ten university education. Seen on campuses and in communities nationwide, their experiences are living proof of the world-class educational opportunities they received, from learning alongside Nobel Prize–winning faculty to participating in internships and undergraduate research. The spot also highlights the universities’ broader impact through innovation, job creation and service.

Together, the 18 members of the Big Ten Conference are educating more than 810,000 students, preparing them for successful lives and careers. The Big Ten’s collective graduation rate is more than 20 points above the national average and the universities have more than 9.2 million living alumni.

The first ad in the “We Are Here” series began airing last fall and has generated more than 250 million impressions across Big Ten broadcasts to date, including during the College Football Playoff National Championship won by Indiana University. It focused on how Big Ten universities make America healthier, safer and more prosperous through everything from discovering new medical treatments to developing healthier foods to driving economic growth.

“The success of our students is our first priority, and Big Ten universities lead the nation in providing access to an excellent and valuable college education. And after graduation, our students go on to join the more than 9 million alumni who are making a difference in communities around the nation and world,” said University of Maryland President Darryll J. Pines, who chairs the Big Ten's Council of Presidents and Chancellors. “We’re proud to be part of a conference that shares a commitment to academic and athletic excellence, and that showcases both on a daily basis.”

"Big Ten universities are committed to wide-ranging achievement, from athletics to research to public service,” said Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti. “As millions of fans tune in to root for their favorite team, we have an opportunity to illustrate the countless ways our member institutions and alumni make an impact in their communities and around the world.”

The ad will air on linear and digital platforms during sporting events featuring Big Ten universities, utilizing airtime allocated to the Conference as part of its media agreements, including the Big Ten Network (BTN). This new initiative builds on other Conference efforts, including research vignettes highlighting the impact of university research that air during select BTN sporting event broadcasts.

As with the first ad, the second spot was developed by a creative team made up of staff from Big Ten member universities under the auspices of the Big Ten Academic Alliance. It is the second in a planned series of three ads, which over the course of the series will feature footage from all 18 universities.

About Big Ten Academic Alliance

The Big Ten Academic Alliance is the nation’s preeminent model for effective collaboration among research universities. For more than half a century, these world-class institutions have advanced their academic missions, generated unique opportunities for students and faculty, and served the common good by sharing expertise, leveraging campus resources, and collaborating on innovative programs. Governed and funded by the Provosts of the member universities, Big Ten Academic Alliance programs and initiatives are coordinated by a staff from its Champaign, Illinois headquarters.

About Big Ten Conference

The Big Ten Conference is an association of world-class universities whose member institutions share a common mission of research, graduate, professional and undergraduate teaching and public service. Founded in 1896, the Big Ten has sustained a comprehensive set of shared practices and policies that enforce the priority of academics in the lives of students competing in intercollegiate athletics and emphasize the values of integrity, fairness and competitiveness. The Big Ten Conference sponsors 28 official sports, 14 for men and 14 for women, and the broad-based programs of the 18 Big Ten institutions provide direct financial support for more than 14,000 student-athletes. For more information, visit www.bigten.org .

Media Contacts:

Paul Kennedy, Big Ten Conference, pkennedy@bigten.org

Jack Martin, University of Washington, jacktm@uw.edu

Big Ten Member Universities:

· Indiana University

· Michigan State University

· Northwestern University

· The Ohio State University

· Pennsylvania State University

· Purdue University

· Rutgers University-New Brunswick

· University of California Los Angeles

· University of Illinois

· University of Iowa

· University of Maryland

· University of Michigan

· University of Minnesota

· University of Nebraska-Lincoln

· University of Oregon

· University of Southern California

· University of Washington

· University of Wisconsin-Madison

Week 19 Hockey Release

Unknown — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy of Michigan State Athletics

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• Three teams are in contention for the Big Ten Championship as the final weeks of the season wind down. Michigan, in pursuit of its first Big Ten regular season title, holds a four-point lead over second-place Michigan State, which controls its destiny having two games on hand. The Spartans are looking to three-peat, a milestone accomplished only once before when Minnesota claimed four titles in a row from 2013-14 to 2016-17. Third-place Penn State is 10 points back and would need help to win its first championship since 2019-20. Teams are also battling for home ice for the Big Ten Tournament Quarterfinals, which has schools finishing second, third and fourth in the standings hosting teams placing seventh, sixth, and fifth, respectively for single-elimination games on March 11. The regular season champion receives a bye for the quarterfinals.

• This week’s action begins Thursday as No. 1/1 Michigan State plays host to Notre Dame on the Big Ten Network. Notre Dame, coming off a four-point weekend, takes on a Spartans squad that has won seven of eight contests. No. 2/2 Michigan travels to No. 13/14 Wisconsin in a rematch of a November series that produced 15 goals and a split in Ann Arbor. No. 6/6 Penn State encounters Ohio State in Hockey Valley with both games being carried by BTN. The Nittany Lions can reach 20 wins on the season with a sweep while the Buckeyes look to avenge a pair of one-goal losses that occurred in October.

• The Big Ten has held down the No. 1 spot in the USCHO.com and USA Hockey polls for 17-straight weeks. Michigan State is the top-ranked team for the seventh week after Michigan held the position for 10 weeks. The latest NCAA Power Index (NPI) finds four teams ranked in the top 15: Michigan State (first), Michigan (second), Penn State (fifth) and Wisconsin (15th).

• Michigan State junior Trey Augustine and Michigan freshman Jack Ivankovic were among 10 goalies named last week as semifinalists for the Mike Richter Award, presented to the top goaltender in college hockey. Augustine is a semifinalist for the third-straight year, sporting a 20-6-0 record, 1.96 goals-against average and .932 save percentage. Ivankovic, one of the top goalies to come out of the Canadian Hockey League, owns an 18-5-1 record, 2.13 goals-against average and .922 save percentage. Richter Award finalists will be announced in early March and the winner revealed in April at the NCAA Frozen Four.

• As the regular season enters its final weeks, several Big Ten teams and individuals are vying for NCAA statistical crowns. Michigan leads the NCAA in four categories: winning percentage (.817), scoring offense (4.70), power play percentage (30.6), and power play goals (34). Individual leaders include Michigan’s Michael Hage (1.00 assists per game), Michigan’s Will Horcoff and Michigan State’s Charlie Stramel (7 game-winning goals), Minnesota’s Brodie Ziemer (11 power play goals), and Penn State’s Dane Dowiak (4 short-handed goals).

Michigan, Notre Dame, Penn State Receive Three Stars Awards

Unknown — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference has announced its Three Stars of the Week for ice hockey games played February 13-14, 2026.

First Star
Michael Hage, Michigan
So. – F – Mississauga, Ontario – Chicago (USHL)
2024 Draft: 1st Rd, 21st overall, Montreal Canadiens

Shared the national lead for points (5) and assists (4) as No. 2/2 Michigan claimed five of six points against No. 6/7 Penn State.
Assisted on three of Michigan’s four goals in a 4-4 overtime tie on Friday; scored the decisive shootout goal to give the Wolverines an extra point
Added two more assists on Saturday in Michigan’s 6-3 win in Ann Arbor, Mich.
Earns his fourth career Big Ten weekly award (2-First Stars, 1-Second Star, 1-Third Star)
Last Wolverine named Big Ten First Star: Nick Moldenhauer (January 13, 2026)

Second Star
Nicholas Kempf, Notre Dame
So. – G – Morton Grove, Ill. – U.S. National Team Development Program

Finished with 52 saves in 125 minutes played last week, leading Notre Dame to a win and overtime tie against Minnesota
Kept the nation’s No. 1 power play unit off the board, going 5-for-5 on the penalty kill
Led Big Ten goaltenders with a 1.92 goals-against average and a .931 save percentage
First Irish goalie to claim a Star accolade since Ryan Bischel on February 20, 2024
His selection marks back-to-back weeks that Notre Dame has won a Star Award

Third Star
Reese Laubach, Penn State
Jr. – F – San Jose, Calif. – Omaha (USHL)
2022 NHL Draft: 7th Rd, 217th overall, San Jose Sharks

Tallied a Big Ten-best three goals and finished with four points in a road series versus No. 2/2 Michigan
Scored just 58 seconds into Friday’s contest and provided the primary assist on the game-tying goal in a 4-4 overtime result
Followed with two goals on Saturday for the sixth multiple-goal game of his career
Claims his third career Star Award, having been honored three-straight seasons
Becomes the eighth different PSU player to capture a Star Award this season

Team rankings are from the USCHO.com and USA Hockey polls respectively

2025-26 Big Ten Hockey Three Stars
Oct. 7
First Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Third Star: Christian Fitzgerald, Sr., F, WIS

Oct. 14
First Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Felix Caron, So., F, OSU
Third Star: Jack Ivankovic, Fr., G, MICH

Oct. 21
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Daniel Hauser, Fr., G, WIS
Third Star: Matt Basgall, Sr., D, MSU

Oct. 28
First Star: Tommi Männistö, Jr., F, MSU
Second Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Nov. 4
First Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Second Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH

Nov. 11
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Luca Di Pasquo, Jr., G, MINN
Third Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU

Nov. 18
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Adam Eisele, Gr., F, OSU
Third Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU

Nov. 25
First Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH
Second Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Third Star: Ben Dexheimer, Sr., D, WIS

Dec. 2
First Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Javon Moore, Fr., F, MINN
Third Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH

Dec. 9
First Star: Brodie Ziemer, So., F, MINN
Second Star: Max Montes, Jr., F, OSU
Third Star: Quinn Finley, Jr., F, WIS

Dec. 30
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Third Star: Anthony Romani, Fr., F, MSU

Jan. 6
First Star: Jarod Crespo, Sr., D, PSU
Second Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Aiden Fink, Jr., F, PSU

Jan. 13
First Star: Nick Moldenhauer, Jr., F, MICH
Second Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU
Third Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU

Jan. 20
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Stephen Peck, Fr., G, MICH
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Jan. 27
First Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU
Second Star: Dane Dowiak, Jr., F, PSU
Third Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND

Feb. 3
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Erik Påhlsson, So., F, MINN
Third Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH

Feb. 10
First Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU
Second Star: Luke Osburn, Fr., D, WIS
Third Star: Evan Werner, Jr., F, ND

Feb. 17
First Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Nicholas Kempf, So., G, ND
Third Star: Reese Laubach, Jr., F, PSU

Augustine, Ivankovic Named Richter Award Semifinalists

Hockey Commissioners Association (HCA) — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Week 18 Hockey Release

Unknown — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by Brad Rempel / courtesy of Minnesota Athletics

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• Big Ten Hockey enters the homestretch with four weekends left in the regular season. No. 2/2 Michigan will host No. 6/7 Penn State in Ann Arbor—the Nittany Lions swept two games in their last visit to Yost Ice Arena during the 2025 Big Ten Tournament Quarterfinals. Saturday’s contest will air on the Big Ten Network. Two teams coming off sweeps meet in Columbus as No. 13/12 Wisconsin takes on Ohio State. The Badgers and Buckeyes split a November series in Madison. Saturday’s series finale will be the second game of a BTN doubleheader. Minnesota travels to Notre Dame with both sides looking to build momentum in the final weeks of the season. The Gophers allowed just one goal to the Irish in a November series held in Minneapolis. This weekend’s games will stream on Peacock. No. 1/1 Michigan State has a bye week.

• This past weekend saw a change to the Big Ten leaderboard as Michigan State moved a point ahead of Michigan for first place. Playing for the 355th and 356th time, college hockey’s most-played rivalry produced its first No. 1 versus No. 2 scenario. Michigan claimed a 4-3 overtime win in Ann Arbor before Michigan State rebounded with a 5-2 win Saturday to capture the Iron D Trophy in Detroit. The sellout crowd of 19,515 at Little Caesars Arena was the largest attended indoor game in the NCAA this season. On Monday, the Spartans claimed the top spot in both national polls, ending Michigan’s 10-week reign as the consensus No. 1 team. The top-two women’s teams in the country also met last week, resulting in a split between No. 1 Wisconsin and No. 2 Ohio State in Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) action.

• The latest NCAA Power Index (NPI) includes four Big Ten programs in the top 16—Michigan State (first), Michigan (second), Penn State (fifth) and Wisconsin (14th). The NPI is a formula used to determine at-large berths for the 16-team NCAA Tournament field.

• Penn State freshman goaltender Josh Fleming was recently named Co-Rookie of the Month by the Hockey Commissioners Association (HCA). Fleming helped the Nittany Lions to a 7-3 record in January along with a Big Ten-best .952 save percentage and a 1.62 goals-against average. Fleming is the sixth player from the Big Ten to win a HCA monthly award in 2025-26, joining teammate JJ Wiebusch (Co-Forward, October) along with Michigan’s Ben Robertson (Co-Defender, October), Will Horcoff (Forward, November) and Jack Ivankovic (Goalie, December) and Michigan State’s Anthony Romani (Rookie, December).

• Nine Big Ten-affiliated players will begin their Winter Olympic journeys this week in Milan, Italy. Big Ten alumni will skate for the United States, Finland, Germany and Italy. In addition, Big Ten linesman Jake Davis has been assigned as a game official. Big Ten schools have produced 171 Olympic selections who have represented 11 different countries over 22 Winter Olympiads.

Big Ten Conference Student-Athlete Issues Commission Calls for Limitations or Ban of Individual Prop Betting on College Athletics

Unknown — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. — [February, 10, 2026] — The Big Ten Conference Student-Athlete Issues Commission (SAIC) today sent a letter to NCAA President Charlie Baker urging the NCAA to continue pushing for limitations or the outright elimination of proposition (“prop”) betting involving individual student-athletes competing in college athletics. The letter reinforces the Big Ten Conference’s unwavering commitment to protecting the well-being and safety of student-athletes across all 18 Big Ten campuses, and the integrity of intercollegiate athletics.

“The Big Ten Conference is proud to support our student-athletes in calling for the restriction or elimination of individual proposition wagers on college athletics,” said Big Ten Conference Commissioner Tony Petitti. "The Big Ten Conference appreciates the NCAA’s effort to eliminate these wagers and will continue to assist student-athletes as they deal with the challenges that result from proposition bets in college sports.”

President Baker recently sent letters to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and to State Gambling Commissions calling for amended state laws and regulations to better-protect student-athletes.

The letter from the Big Ten Conference SAIC outlines the growing concerns around the rise of individual performance prop wagering in college sports, including:

Increased harassment student-athletes experience because of wagers on individual-performance proposition wagers
Negative impact individual-performance proposition betting has on student-athletes’ mental health
Accusations of impropriety, even when unfounded, damage the student-athlete experience
Potentially jeopardizing the integrity of athletic competition

“While we understand that sports betting is becoming increasingly more common across the country and allows for states to generate increased tax revenue, prop betting represents unique risks at the college level,” the Big Ten Conference Student-Athlete Issues Commission wrote. “We believe protecting student-athletes must be a priority. Limiting or eliminating prop betting on college athletics would be a meaningful step toward reducing harassment, protecting mental well-being, and preserving the integrity of college competition.”

The Big Ten Conference SAIC was founded in 1994. SAIC members take an active role in monthly meetings discussing the issues most important to Big Ten Conference student-athletes and highlighting ongoing initiatives on their respective campuses. SAIC executive leadership members also represent Big Ten student-athletes in front of the Conference’s Joint Group council and represent the Big Ten Conference on the NCAA’s Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, where they review NCAA activities, proposed legislation and offer feedback on behalf of the Big Ten’s student-athletes. Student-athletes are nominated by their institution and appointed by the Conference’s Joint Group Executive Committee to serve on the commission for one academic year.

The Big Ten Conference SAIC members signing the letter include:

Callin Hake, SAIC Chair, University of Nebraska Women’s Basketball
Mia Rogan, SAIC Internal Vice Chair, Women’s Cross Country & Track, Michigan State University
Michael Long, SAIC External Vice Chair, Men’s Swim & Dive, University of Wisconsin
Nya Robinson, SAIC Secretary, Women’s Swim & Dive, Penn State University
Samuel Edwards, NCAA Board of Directors, Men’s Football, Michigan State University
Abigail Lynch, NCAA Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Women’s Soccer & Track, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Demetrious Allen, Men’s Football, Rutgers University
Javiera Baeza, Women’s Field Hockey, Indiana University
Ava Bayless, Women’s Wrestling, University of Iowa
Josh Eernisse, Men’s Ice Hockey, University of Michigan
Taji Flynn, Men’s Lacrosse, The Ohio State University
Jordan Hall, Men’s Football, Michigan State University
Tali Joelson, Women’s Gymnastics, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Franck Kepnang, Men’s Basketball, University of Washington
Nuala Macfarlane, Women’s Rowing, University of Minnesota
Ava Morales, Women’s Soccer, University of Maryland
Myranda Quinton, Women’s Golf, Penn State University
Kansas Robinson, Women’s Softball, Northwestern University
James Rowley, Men’s Wrestling, Purdue University
Jaidin Russell, Men’s Volleyball, University of California, Los Angeles
Russell Soohoo, Men’s Tennis, University of Oregon
Madison Whyte, Women’s Track & Field, University of Southern Californi

Ohio State, Wisconsin, Notre Dame Take Home Weekly Honors

Unknown — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference has announced its Three Stars of the Week for ice hockey games played February 6-7, 2026.

First Star
Sam Hillebrandt, Ohio State
Fr. – G – Port Huron, Mich. – Barrie (OHL)

Backstopped Ohio State to a pair of road wins at Minnesota, helping the Buckeyes clinch the season series
Stopped 47-of-50 shots for a .940 save percentage and a 1.50 goals-against average
Allowed one even-strength goal on the weekend and made a combined 21 saves in the third periods alone, preserving leads in both games
Earns a Star Award for the second time this season, was previously named Third Star on Jan. 13, 2026
Last Buckeye named Big Ten First Star: Damien Carfagna (Feb. 18, 2025)

Second Star
Luke Osburn, Wisconsin
Fr. – D – Plymouth, Mich. – Youngstown (USHL)
2024 NHL Draft: 4th Rd, 108th overall, Buffalo Sabres

Compiled four points (two goals, two assists) to lead Big Ten blueliners in scoring as No. 13/11 Wisconsin swept Notre Dame in Madison, Wis.
Scored two goals and assisted on the overtime game-winner in Friday’s 6-5 win
Ranks second nationally among freshmen defensemen in scoring with 19 points
Becomes the fourth defenseman to garner a Star Award in 2025-26
Last Badger to receive a Star Award: Quinn Finley (Third Star, Dec. 9, 2025)

Third Star
Evan Werner, Notre Dame
Jr. – F – Flower Mound, Texas – Michigan (NCAA)

Shared the NCAA lead with four goals as part of a five-point weekend for Notre Dame against No. 13/11 Wisconsin
Completed a hat trick by scoring with 1:09 left in the third period to force overtime on Friday
Netted a first-period goal on Saturday to extend his points streak to six games
Collects the third weekly award of his career, having been named a First Star and a Third Star last season while at Michigan
Last Notre Dame player named a Star: Sutter Muzzatti (Third Star, Jan. 27, 2026)

Team rankings: USCHO.com/USA Hockey polls

2025-26 Big Ten Hockey Three Stars
Oct. 7
First Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Third Star: Christian Fitzgerald, Sr., F, WIS

Oct. 14
First Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Felix Caron, So., F, OSU
Third Star: Jack Ivankovic, Fr., G, MICH

Oct. 21
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Daniel Hauser, Fr., G, WIS
Third Star: Matt Basgall, Sr., D, MSU

Oct. 28
First Star: Tommi Männistö, Jr., F, MSU
Second Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Nov. 4
First Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Second Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH

Nov. 11
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Luca Di Pasquo, Jr., G, MINN
Third Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU

Nov. 18
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Adam Eisele, Gr., F, OSU
Third Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU

Nov. 25
First Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH
Second Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Third Star: Ben Dexheimer, Sr., D, WIS

Dec. 2
First Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Javon Moore, Fr., F, MINN
Third Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH

Dec. 9
First Star: Brodie Ziemer, So., F, MINN
Second Star: Max Montes, Jr., F, OSU
Third Star: Quinn Finley, Jr., F, WIS

Dec. 30
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Third Star: Anthony Romani, Fr., F, MSU

Jan. 6
First Star: Jarod Crespo, Sr., D, PSU
Second Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Aiden Fink, Jr., F, PSU

Jan. 13
First Star: Nick Moldenhauer, Jr., F, MICH
Second Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU
Third Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU

Jan. 20
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Stephen Peck, Fr., G, MICH
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Jan. 27
First Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU
Second Star: Dane Dowiak, Jr., F, PSU
Third Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND

Feb. 3
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Erik Påhlsson, So., F, MINN
Third Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH

Feb. 10
First Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU
Second Star: Luke Osburn, Fr., D, WIS
Third Star: Evan Werner, Jr., F, ND

Penn State's Fleming Named HCA Co-Rookie of the Month

Penn State Athletics — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Week 17 Hockey Release

Unknown — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy of Michigan Athletics

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• The final month of the regular season begins this weekend with a showdown between the nation’s top teams — No. 1/1 Michigan versus No. 2/2 Michigan State. The series begins Friday in Ann Arbor (on FS1) before moving to Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena on Saturday for the “Duel in the D”. The battle for the “Iron D” trophy will air on the Big Ten Network. The most played rivalry in college hockey, Michigan and Michigan State split in November with each school winning on the road. No. 13/11 Wisconsin returns home to host Notre Dame. The Badgers are in contention for home ice for next month’s Big Ten Tournament while the Fighting Irish are coming off a pair of ties to close their nonconference schedule. Notre Dame goaltender Nicholas Kempf made an NCAA-high 76 saves (not counting 10 in shootouts) last week against Bowling Green, posting a .938 save percentage. This weekend’s action also features Minnesota hosting Ohio State, teams next to each other in the standings. A December series between the schools produced 20 goals, an overtime session, and a series split. Saturday’s tilt in Minneapolis will be part of a BTN doubleheader. No. 6/6 Penn State is off this week.

• Penn State drew the second-largest crowd in college hockey history on Saturday when 74,575 fans turned out for PSU’s first-ever Division I outdoor game at Beaver Stadium. Michigan State prevailed, 5-4, in overtime aided by a hat trick from Charlie Stramel, who was named the Big Ten First Star of the Week. Saturday’s crowd bumped Penn State into second place in NCAA home attendance (10,943), giving the Big Ten four teams in the Top 10. Saturday’s matinee was also the highest-attended college game since 2010 when Michigan-Michigan State met outdoors at Michigan Stadium.

• The Winter Olympic Games Milano Cortina 2026 kickoff this week with the men’s hockey competition slated for Feb. 11-22 at the Milan cluster. Nine Big Ten alumni will represent four countries as NHL players return to the Games for the first time since 2014.

UNITED STATES (6)
Michigan: F Kyle Connor (Winnipeg-NHL), D Quinn Hughes (New Jersey-NHL), F Dylan Larkin (Detroit-NHL), D Zach Werenski (Columbus-NHL)
Minnesota: D Brock Faber (Minnesota-NHL), Jackson LaCombe (Anaheim-NHL)

FINLAND (1)
Minnesota: F Erik Haula (Nashville-NHL)

GERMANY (1)
Michigan State: F Wojciech Stachowiak (Syracuse-AHL)

ITALY (1)
Michigan State: F Dustin Gazley (Bolzano HC-AUS)

Michigan State, Minnesota, Michigan Win Three Stars Honors

Unknown — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference has announced its Three Stars of the Week for ice hockey games played January 30-31, 2026.

First Star
Charlie Stramel, Michigan State
Sr. – F – Rosemount, Minn. – Wisconsin (NCAA)
2023 NHL Draft: 1st Rd, 21st overall, Minnesota Wild

Recorded five points (three goals, two assists) as No. 2/2 Michigan State swept No. 5/5 Penn State in University Park, Pa.
Logged a hat trick in Saturday’s 5-4 win, netting the overtime game-winner in front of 74,575 spectators outdoors at Beaver Stadium
Finished the weekend with 13 shots on goal, 29 faceoff wins and four blocked shots
Earns his sixth career Star honor (2-First Stars, 1-Second Star, 3-Third Stars) and third of the season
Last Spartan named Big Ten First Star: Charlie Stramel (Dec. 30, 2025)

Second Star
Erik Påhlsson, Minnesota
So. – F – Landskrona, Sweden – Dubuque (USHL)
2024 NHL Draft: 7th Rd, 213th overall, Nashville Predators

Produced five points (three goals, two assists) to lead Minnesota to a weekend sweep of No. 8/7 Wisconsin
Registered back-to-back multiple-point games, scoring twice in Saturday’s 8-4 win
Netted the game-winning goal in a 4-1 victory to open the series
The first Gopher to wear a No. 72 jersey, secures his first Big Ten weekly accolade
Last Minnesota player to receive a Star Award: Brodie Ziemer (First Star, Dec. 9, 2025)

Third Star
T.J. Hughes, Michigan
Sr. – F – Hamilton, Ontario – Brooks (AJHL)

Amassed four points (two goals, two assists) in Michigan’s two wins at Ohio State, which resulted in the Wolverines’ first 4-0 season sweep of the Buckeyes since 1995
Buried two goals, including the game-winner, for top-ranked Michigan in a 6-3 win on Friday
Distributed the primary assist on the overtime winner Saturday, reaching 100 assists for his career
Garners his fourth career Big Ten weekly award (1-First Star, 2-Second Stars, 1-Third Star) and second of the season
Last time Hughes received a Star certificate: Nov. 25, 2025 (First Star)

Team rankings: USCHO.com/USA Hockey polls

2025-26 Big Ten Hockey Three Stars
Oct. 7
First Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Third Star: Christian Fitzgerald, Sr., F, WIS

Oct. 14
First Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Felix Caron, So., F, OSU
Third Star: Jack Ivankovic, Fr., G, MICH

Oct. 21
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Daniel Hauser, Fr., G, WIS
Third Star: Matt Basgall, Sr., D, MSU

Oct. 28
First Star: Tommi Männistö, Jr., F, MSU
Second Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Nov. 4
First Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Second Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH

Nov. 11
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Luca Di Pasquo, Jr., G, MINN
Third Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU

Nov. 18
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Adam Eisele, Gr., F, OSU
Third Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU

Nov. 25
First Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH
Second Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Third Star: Ben Dexheimer, Sr., D, WIS

Dec. 2
First Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Javon Moore, Fr., F, MINN
Third Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH

Dec. 9
First Star: Brodie Ziemer, So., F, MINN
Second Star: Max Montes, Jr., F, OSU
Third Star: Quinn Finley, Jr., F, WIS

Dec. 30
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Third Star: Anthony Romani, Fr., F, MSU

Jan. 6
First Star: Jarod Crespo, Sr., D, PSU
Second Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Aiden Fink, Jr., F, PSU

Jan. 13
First Star: Nick Moldenhauer, Jr., F, MICH
Second Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU
Third Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU

Jan. 20
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Stephen Peck, Fr., G, MICH
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Jan. 27
First Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU
Second Star: Dane Dowiak, Jr., F, PSU
Third Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND

Feb. 3
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Erik Påhlsson, So., F, MINN
Third Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH

Week 16 Hockey Release

Unknown — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by: Mark Selders / Courtesy of Penn State Athletics

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• The chase for the Big Ten Championship is heating up as 10 conference games remain for most of the league. This week’s slate of games features all seven teams in action, highlighted by Penn State’s outdoor game at Beaver Stadium. In a top-five showdown, No. 5/5 Penn State will host No. 2/2 Michigan State in the second series between the teams — MSU swept two home games in November. Saturday’s matinee (1 p.m. ET) will take place on West Shore Home Field at Beaver Stadium and be carried by the Big Ten Network. The game is one of 13 PSU athletic events scheduled for the first-ever Winter Sports Weekend on campus. The Nittany Lions moved into a first-place tie with Michigan over the weekend following two wins at Wisconsin. The Spartans are a point behind in third. No. 1/1 Michigan returns to the ice after having a bye week, meeting arch-rival Ohio State in Columbus. The Wolverines outscored the Buckeyes, 13-3, in a pair of wins in Ann Arbor just before Thanksgiving. The latest installment of the rivalry between No. 8/7 Wisconsin and Minnesota returns to 3M Arena at Mariucci. The Badgers won twice in Madison during the first month of the season, knocking the Gophers out of the top 20. Notre Dame will play the final nonconference games of the season, taking on Bowling Green in a home-and-home series starting Friday in Notre Dame.

• Saturday’s game at Beaver Stadium will be the 19th outdoor game involving Big Ten teams. Michigan State is playing its seventh outdoor contest, its most recent venture outdoors being a 4-3 overtime win versus Wisconsin at the Frozen Confines in Wrigley Field. Penn State made its outdoor debut last year at the same event, skating to a 3-3 overtime tie against Notre Dame. Saturday’s event will mark the sixth time a Big Ten school has hosted an outdoor game on campus as Beaver Stadium joins the ranks of Camp Randall Stadium, Michigan Stadium, Notre Dame Stadium, Spartan Stadium, and TCF Bank Stadium (now Huntington Bank Stadium). Tickets are still available at www.gopsusports.com .

• Penn State’s Aiden Fink and Michigan State’s Daniel Russell recently hit the century mark for career points. Fink is tied for fifth place among active NCAA players with 107 points while Russell ranks seventh with 104 points. T.J. Hughes of Michigan stands atop the list with 156 points. Ohio State senior Davis Burnside is on the verge of joining the Century Club, needing three points to reach that plateau. In net, a milestone is being approached by Michigan State goaltender Trey Augustine, who is 31 saves shy of 2,500 for his career. Only three other active goalies have reached that mark. Augustine is also college hockey’s winningest active goalie with 59 wins.

• Fan balloting has begun for the 2026 Hobey Baker Memorial Award, which recognizes the top player in college hockey. The Big Ten has 15 nominees on the ballot, which is open to fan voting through March 8 at www.hobeybaker.com/vote . The Hobey Baker winner will be revealed at the Frozen Four in April.

Notre Dame and Penn State Net Three Stars Awards

Unknown — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference has announced its Three Stars of the Week for ice hockey games played January 23-24, 2026.

First Star
Gavin McKenna, Penn State
Fr. – F – Whitehorse, Yukon – Medicine Hat (WHL)

Spurred No. 8/8 Penn State to a road sweep of No. 5/5 Wisconsin, totaling a Big Ten-high four goals and five points on the weekend
Recorded a hat trick as part of a four-point night in Friday’s 7-2 win
Extended his points streak to five games, moving into a share of the team’s scoring lead
Receives a Star Award for the third time this season (1-First Star, 2-Third Stars)
With his selection, Penn State has six First Stars on the season

Second Star
Dane Dowiak, Penn State
Jr. – F – Pittsburgh, Pa. – Tri-City (USHL)

Tied for the Big Ten lead in points last week, amassing five points (three goals, two assists) as Penn State recorded its first-ever sweep against a top-five opponent
Notched his first career hat trick and tallied the game-winning goal in the series opener
Finished with a plus-seven rating while winning 58.5 percent of his faceoffs
The Academic All-Big Ten selection earns his first career Star honor
Becomes the seventh different PSU player to win a Star Award in 2025-26

Third Star
Sutter Muzzatti, Notre Dame
Gr. – F – Okemos, Mich. – RPI (NCAA)
2023 NHL Draft: 5th Rd, 143rd overall, Nashville Predators

Powered Notre Dame to its first conference win of the season, a 6-1 decision over Ohio State at the Compton Family Ice Arena
Factored in four of six goals in the win and was on the ice for three power play goals
Produced an NCAA-high four points on Saturday with two goals and two assists
Paces the Fighting Irish in scoring with 21 points on the season
Secures his second weekly award of the season, having been named a Second Star on Oct. 28, 2025

Team rankings: USCHO.com/USA Hockey polls

2025-26 Big Ten Hockey Three Stars
Oct. 7
First Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH
Third Star: Christian Fitzgerald, Sr., F, WIS

Oct. 14
First Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Second Star: Felix Caron, So., F, OSU
Third Star: Jack Ivankovic, Fr., G, MICH

Oct. 21
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Daniel Hauser, Fr., G, WIS
Third Star: Matt Basgall, Sr., D, MSU

Oct. 28
First Star: Tommi Männistö, Jr., F, MSU
Second Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Nov. 4
First Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Second Star: JJ Wiebusch, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH

Nov. 11
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Luca Di Pasquo, Jr., G, MINN
Third Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU

Nov. 18
First Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Second Star: Adam Eisele, Gr., F, OSU
Third Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU

Nov. 25
First Star: T.J. Hughes, Sr., F, MICH
Second Star: Blake Montgomery, Fr., F, WIS
Third Star: Ben Dexheimer, Sr., D, WIS

Dec. 2
First Star: Will Horcoff, So., F, MICH
Second Star: Javon Moore, Fr., F, MINN
Third Star: Michael Hage, So., F, MICH

Dec. 9
First Star: Brodie Ziemer, So., F, MINN
Second Star: Max Montes, Jr., F, OSU
Third Star: Quinn Finley, Jr., F, WIS

Dec. 30
First Star: Charlie Stramel, Sr., F, MSU
Second Star: Trey Augustine, Jr., G, MSU
Third Star: Anthony Romani, Fr., F, MSU

Jan. 6
First Star: Jarod Crespo, Sr., D, PSU
Second Star: Charlie Cerrato, So., F, PSU
Third Star: Aiden Fink, Jr., F, PSU

Jan. 13
First Star: Nick Moldenhauer, Jr., F, MICH
Second Star: Porter Martone, Fr., F, MSU
Third Star: Sam Hillebrandt, Fr., G, OSU

Jan. 20
First Star: Matt DiMarsico, Jr., F, PSU
Second Star: Stephen Peck, Fr., G, MICH
Third Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU

Jan. 27
First Star: Gavin McKenna, Fr., F, PSU
Second Star: Dane Dowiak, Jr., F, PSU
Third Star: Sutter Muzzatti, Gr., F, ND

Week 15 Hockey Release

Unknown — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by: Taylor Wolfram / Courtesy of Wisconsin Athletics

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• The second half of the Big Ten Hockey schedule begins this week with three pairs of teams meeting for the first time this season. No. 1/1 Michigan, which has played two more games than the rest of the conference, is off this week, giving other teams an opportunity to move up the standings. Having reclaimed the No. 2/2 spots in the national polls, Michigan State returns home to host Minnesota. Gopher goaltender Luca Di Pasquo was tested last week, making 92 saves against Michigan. Saturday’s MINN-MSU contest will be carried by the Big Ten Network. No. 8/8 Penn State travels to No. 5/5 Wisconsin. Should the Nittany Lions manage a pair of wins in regulation, they would move into a first-place tie. No. 8/8 Wisconsin looks to keep pace as it closes a six-game homestand. Saturday’s game will be part of a BTN doubleheader. Ohio State and Notre Dame square off at the Compton Family Ice Arena with both games streamed on Peacock.

• The latest NCAA Power Index includes four Big Ten teams among the Top 16. Michigan occupies the top spot followed by Michigan State (second), Penn State (sixth) and Wisconsin (seventh). The NPI is a statistical formula that emulates the selection process used for at-large bids to the 16-team NCAA Tournament.

• A glance at NCAA statistics finds the Big Ten leading eight team categories and four individual areas. Teamwise, the Big Ten paces the country in power play goals (MICH, 28), assists (MICH, 198), points (MICH, 314), scoring offense (MICH, 4.83), scoring defense (MSU, 1.77), scoring margin (MICH, 2.75), blocked shots (MINN, 373), and winning percentage (MICH, .833). Individually, the Big Ten tops the charts in game-winning goals (Will Horcoff, MICH, 6), shorthanded goals (Dane Dowiak, PSU, 3/Josh Eernisse, MICH, 3), hat tricks (Matt DiMarsico, PSU, 3), and save percentage (Josh Fleming, PSU, .943).

• Three Big Ten players are featured in the NHL Central Scouting midterm rankings for North American skates, which identifies top prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft. Penn State forward Gavin McKenna is listed as the No. 1 prospect. At 18 years of age, McKenna ranks eighth in Big Ten scoring with 24 points (6 goals, 18 assists) in 20 games. He was named the Big Ten Third Star of the Week after logging five points and averaging 24:04 minutes of ice time per game in PSU’s sweep of Notre Dame last week. The midterm rankings also include Michigan teammates Dakoda Rhéaume-Mullen and Adam Valentini. A sophomore defenseman, Rhéaume-Mullen competed for Team USA at the IIHF World Junior Championship while Valentini, a forward, is the top freshman scorer for the Wolverines, ranking fifth in team points.

• The Big Ten Tournament will sport a new look in 2026, being shortened from three weeks to two weeks. The quarterfinals, previously played as best-of-three series over a weekend, will now be single-elimination games played on Wednesday (March 11) to open the tournament. Single-elimination semifinals and the ensuring championship game will be played on consecutive Saturdays on March 14 and March 21 at campus sites.

Michigan and Penn State Secure Three Stars Awards

Unknown — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference has announced its Three Stars of the Week for ice hockey games played January 15-17, 2026.

First Star
Matt DiMarsico, Penn State
Jr. – F – Wexford, Pa. – Green Bay (USHL)

Led Division I skaters with four goals last week, helping No. 8/8 Penn State to a sweep of Notre Dame
Produced his third hat trick of the season with three goals in PSU’s 4-1 win on Friday
Scored game-winning goals in both games against the Fighting Irish
The Big Ten Distinguished Scholar collects his third career Star Award and second of the season, having been tabbed First Star on Oct. 21, 2025
Last Nittany Lion named First Star: Jarod Crespo (Jan. 6, 2026)

Second Star
Stephen Peck, Michigan
Fr. – G – New York, N.Y. – Muskegon (USHL)

Went 2-0 in his first two collegiate starts, helping No. 1/1 Michigan to its first road sweep of Minnesota since 2018
Didn’t give up an even-strength goal in the series, all three goals allowed occurred on the power play
Turned away 43-of-46 shots for a 1.48 goals-against average and a .935 save percentage
The Wolverine netminder receives his first Big Ten weekly award
Becomes the sixth different Michigan player to earn a Star accolade this season

Third Star
Gavin McKenna, Penn State
Fr. – F – Whitehorse, Yukon – Medicine Hat (WHL)

Tied for the national lead with five points (two goals, three assists), factoring in half of Penn State’s 10 goals in a home sweep of Notre Dame
Amassed a career-best three points (two goals, assist) in Penn State’s 6-3 win on Saturday
Finished with 11 shots on goal, two blocked shots and averaged 24:04 of ice time per game
Has captured two Star Awards this season, was chosen Third Star on Oct. 28, 2025
His selection marks the 10th Star Award for Penn State in 2025-26

Team rankings: USCHO.com/USA Hockey polls

Week 14 Hockey Release

Unknown — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by: Brace Hemmelgarn / courtesy of Minnesota Athletics

OFFICIAL RELEASE

• Six Big Ten teams take to the ice this week as conference play reaches the halfway mark. No. 1/1 Michigan, which has opened a four-point lead in the standings, travels to Minnesota. Michigan has won eight of its last nine games while Minnesota, with a sweep this weekend, can climb back to .500 in league play. Since Big Ten play started in 2013-14, the Gophers have built a 25-17-6 series lead versus the Wolverines. No. 2/2 Wisconsin will host No 4/3 Michigan State in a top four showdown at the Kohl Center. Wisconsin swept two road games from Michigan State (ranked No. 1 at the time) in November. Both contests were decided by a goal and included an overtime session. Thursday’s tilt will be broadcast by the Big Ten Network. No. 8/8 Penn State stays at home to take on Notre Dame. The Nittany Lions have won their last three games by three goals-or-more; Notre Dame seeks its first league win of the season. Saturday’s contest from University Park will be carried by BTN. Ohio State, coming off a 2-1 upset of Michigan State, is idle this week.

• The Big Ten features four teams in the top 10 of the NCAA Power Index (NPI), which replaced the Pairwise as the data formula used to select teams for the NCAA Tournament. Michigan rates No. 1 in the NPI, followed by Wisconsin at No. 3, Michigan State at No. 6 and Penn State at No. 7.

• Michigan’s T.J. Hughes leads NCAA active players with 153 career points—31 more than his nearest competitor—and owns the top spot with 56 goals. On the conference level, Hughes recently moved into third place for career points in conference play with 92. Hughes needs 11 points to surpass Minnesota’s Tyler Sheehy (2015-19) for second place. Hughes is also one marker shy of tying Ohio State’s Nick Schilkey (2013-17) for sixth place in all-time conference goals (36). It has been a stellar season for the Wolverines’ captain, who played for the U.S. Collegiate Selects at the Spengler Cup and is in contention for the Big Ten scoring title with a league-best 20 points in 12 conference games.

• Four Big Ten goaltenders have made the watch list for the Mike Richter Award, which is presented to the nation’s top netminder. Among the 29 goalies included on the list are Michigan’s Jack Ivankovic, Michigan State’s Trey Augustine, Penn State’s Josh Fleming and Wisconsin’s Daniel Hauser. Ivankovic, Fleming and Hauser are freshmen while Augustine, a junior, was a finalist for the award last year. Big Ten goalies have won the Richter three times, most recently in 2024 (Wisconsin’s Kyle McClellan).

• Former Notre Dame Head Coach Jeff Jackson has been honored by the American Hockey Coaches Association (AHCA) with the John MacInnes Award. The award recognizes individuals who have shown a great concern for amateur hockey in addition to achieving success behind the bench and posting outstanding graduation rates. Jackson spent 20 seasons at Notre Dame (2005-25), leading the Irish to 419 wins, 12 NCAA Tournaments and four Frozen Fours. Jackson will receive the MacInnes Award at the AHCA Convention in Bonita Springs, Fla.