Sports
Andover’s Shane Lachance Leads BU to NCAA Hockey Championship Game

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Andover native Shane Lachance and the Boston University men’s hockey team are set to face off against Western Michigan in the NCAA Division I National Championship Game this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Enterprise Center. The match will air live on ESPN2.
This marks a significant achievement for Lachance and the Terriers, who have worked tirelessly to reach this point in the tournament. The team secured their spot in the final by defeating Minnesota State in a thrilling semifinal, winning 4-2.
“We’ve come together as a team, and we’re excited for the opportunity to compete for the national title,” Lachance said after the semifinal victory. “Every game has brought us closer, and we’ve prepared hard for this moment.”
Western Michigan, on the other hand, earned their berth in the championship game with a stunning upset over top-seeded Michigan in their semifinal match. The Broncos won in overtime, showcasing their resilience and determination.
BU and Western Michigan have had a competitive history, with both teams showing impressive performances throughout the season. Expert analysts predict a closely contested game as both squads boast strong offensive and defensive capabilities.
“It’s going to be a battle,” said BU head coach Albie O’Connell. “Western is well-coached and has a lot of talent. We need to stay disciplined and stick to our game plan if we want to come out on top.”
The stakes are high as the Terriers look to claim their sixth national title since their last championship win in 2009. Meanwhile, Western Michigan seeks their first ever national title, adding further excitement to this highly anticipated matchup.
Fans from both schools are expected to fill the Enterprise Center, and the atmosphere is sure to be electric. As the puck drops on Saturday evening, the nation will watch closely to see who will emerge as the 2023 NCAA Division I Hockey National Champion.