Image Source: Grand Forks Herald
The Frozen Four semifinals brought an intense showdown on April 9, 2026, as the Wisconsin Badgers faced off against the University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. In a nail-biting contest, Wisconsin emerged victorious, sealing a hard-earned 2-1 win that ended UND’s season and carried them into the championship match.
Wisconsin’s Strong Start
Wisconsin opened the scoring with a strong first period performance. Simon Tassy broke the deadlock at 12:54, capitalizing on a turnover in UND’s defensive zone to fire a precise shot into the corner of the net. This goal ended an impressive streak of 63 consecutive saves made by UND goalie Jan Špunar, who had maintained this run for over two games, spanning 140:05 of play.
Just 27 seconds later, Ryan Botterill doubled Wisconsin’s lead to 2-0, taking advantage of a breakaway. His shot squeaked past Špunar, giving the Badgers an early two-goal advantage that would prove critical.
UND’s Resilient Comeback
Facing two early goals, the Fighting Hawks rallied in the third period. With the extra attacker on the ice, Ellis Rickwood scored with just 53 seconds left in the game, making it 2-1. His goal came from a quick play behind the net initiated by Dylan James, showcasing UND’s determination to fight back right until the final whistle.
Standout Players Shine
Daniel Hauser, Wisconsin’s goaltender, played a pivotal role in their win, recording 19 saves throughout the match that earned him the first star of the game. Simon Tassy and Ryan Botterill, who netted the goals for Wisconsin, were also recognized for their tremendous contributions, taking second and third star honors respectively.
A Season to Remember for UND
This match marked UND’s first appearance in the Frozen Four since 2016, highlighting their strong return to national relevance in college hockey. Despite the disappointment of coming so close to advancing to the finals, the Fighting Hawks showed resilience and prowess throughout the tournament, creating lasting memories for their fans and players alike.
With the season now over, the Fighting Hawks can reflect on their successful campaign, setting the stage for a hopeful return next year. Meanwhile, Wisconsin looks forward to competing for the championship title, aiming to secure their place among college hockey’s elite.
Final Thoughts
The Frozen Four semifinals proved to be an exhilarating clash of talent, strategy, and passion. Both teams displayed a high level of skill, contributing to what will be remembered as a thrilling segment of NCAA hockey.
FAQs about the Frozen Four
What teams competed in the Frozen Four semifinals?
The Wisconsin Badgers faced off against the UND Fighting Hawks in the semifinals.
What was the final score of the game?
The final score was Wisconsin 2, UND 1.
Who were the standout players in the match?
Daniel Hauser, Simon Tassy, and Ryan Botterill from Wisconsin were recognized for their impressive performances.
When will the championship game of the Frozen Four take place?
The date for the Frozen Four championship game will be announced following the semifinals.
How often does the Frozen Four occur?
The Frozen Four is held annually, showcasing the top four teams in NCAA Division I men’s ice hockey.
