Wisconsin's men's hockey team delivered a stunning performance on March 26, 2026, defeating Dartmouth 5-1 in their NCAA Tournament regional semifinal game. The Badgers, who had not won a tournament game since 2010, showcased a relentless third period, scoring four goals to secure their victory.
Wisconsin's Dominant Third Period
The game, held at the DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts, was a critical matchup for both teams. Wisconsin, ranked No. 12, faced off against No. 9 Dartmouth in a regional semifinal encounter, marking Dartmouth’s first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1980. The Badgers' dominance in the third period was particularly notable, as they scored all four of their goals in the final 20 minutes of the game.
Wisconsin’s Road to the Semis
Wisconsin's journey to the NCAA tournament was marked by a disappointing 7-1 loss to Ohio State in the Big Ten tournament. Despite this setback, the Badgers' resilience and determination were evident in their playoff performance. The team's ability to overcome a long drought of tournament losses, spanning five games, is a testament to their perseverance and skill.
The Implications for the Badgers and Dartmouth
The victory secured Wisconsin's place in the regional finals, where they will compete against Michigan State on Saturday. Dartmouth, on the other hand, concluded their season with a final record of 23-8-4, marking a strong showing in their first NCAA Tournament appearance in decades.
The NCAA tournament is a testament to the resilience and determination of the teams and players involved. Wisconsin's victory over Dartmouth highlights the unpredictable and thrilling nature of college hockey.
The matchup was the first ever between the two storied programs, both of which have a long history of sponsoring men's hockey. As the Badgers continue their journey in the tournament, their upcoming match against Michigan State promises to be another intense and thrilling encounter, underscoring the high stakes and intense competition of Wisconsin hockey.
