Frozen Four Features Newcomers and Champs in 2025 Showdown

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — The 2025 NCAA Men’s Hockey Frozen Four is set with an exciting mix of experienced contenders and fresh faces. The semifinals, taking place on April 10 at the Enterprise Center, will feature defending national champions Denver against Western Michigan, while Boston University faces off against Penn State, which is making its first Frozen Four appearance.

Defending champion Denver reached the Frozen Four by defeating Boston College 3-1 in the Manchester Regional final, in a rematch of last year’s national title game. The Pioneers showcased their resilience, leading early and maintaining pressure throughout the contest. “We know how to win these games, and we trust our game plan,” said Denver coach David Carle.

Meanwhile, Western Michigan advanced after a thrilling double-overtime victory against Minnesota State and a slim 2-1 win over UMass. “Our depth has been key; we’ve found a way to wear opponents down,” stated Broncos head coach Pat Ferschweiler. Western Michigan, making its Frozen Four debut, is looking to capitalize on its balanced scoring and solid goaltending from Hampton Slukynsky.

A major storyline involves Boston University (BU), which secured its third consecutive Frozen Four berth after edging Cornell 3-2 in overtime. With standout performances from brothers Quinn and Cole Hutson, BU aims for its sixth national title, last won in 2009. “Every game in the tournament is tough, but we have the talent to take it all,” said BU forward Quinn Hutson.

The Terriers, however, face a formidable opponent in Penn State, which reached the Frozen Four by defeating UConn 3-2 in overtime, highlighted by a goal from Matt DiMarsico. “We’re just excited to be here and looking to keep our momentum going,” said Penn State head coach Guy Gadowsky. The Nittany Lions, at No. 4 seed, are the first regional fourth seed to make the Frozen Four since Providence in 2019.

Set for April 10 at 5 p.m. ET, the first semifinal pits Denver against Western Michigan, while BU and Penn State will clash at 8:30 p.m. ET. Both games will air on ESPN2 and be available for streaming on ESPN+.

In terms of talent, this year’s Frozen Four rosters feature a total of 38 players who have been drafted by NHL teams. BU leads this statistic with 14 draftees, followed closely by Denver and Western Michigan. “The talent in this tournament is incredible; it’ll be exciting to see how it unfolds,” added analyst and former NHL player Colby Cohen.

The finals will take place April 12 at 7:30 p.m. ET, also at the Enterprise Center. As the teams prepare for their respective matchups, anticipation builds for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the NCAA hockey season.