The University of Denver hockey team suffered a heartbreaking 4-3 double-overtime loss to Western Michigan in the NCHC Frozen Faceoff Championship Game. The Pioneers had a three-goal lead thanks to goals from Jake Fisher, Eric Pohlkamp, and Zeev Buium, but the Broncos mounted a comeback, scoring three goals in the third period to force overtime. Alex Bump scored the OT-winner just 22 seconds into the second extra stanza. Despite goaltender Matt Davis making 46 saves, Denver was unable to hold onto the lead. Western Michigan outshot the Pioneers 50-29, with freshman goaltender Hampton Slukynsky making 26 stops for the Broncos.
The victory marked Western Michigan’s first NCHC tournament championship, adding to their impressive season after winning the Penrose Cup for the conference’s regular season. Denver will now shift its focus to the 2025 NCAA Tournament, with the opponent and location set to be announced during the NCAA Selection Show. Despite the loss, Denver has a strong playoff history, with a 31-11-1 overall record in league playoffs.
Both teams were scoreless on the power play, with goal scorers Zack Sharp and Tim Washe helping the Broncos secure the win. The Pioneers finished the season 1-2-0 against Western Michigan and saw their three-game winning streak come to an end. Despite a valiant effort, Denver will look to regroup and bounce back in the NCAA Tournament following this hard-fought defeat.
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