The Wisconsin Badgers are heading into the NCAA Regional Final after a decisive 5‑1 victory over Dartmouth in the tournament’s semifinal round.
The championship‑bound matchup will take place on Saturday, March 28, at 3:30 p.m. Central Time inside the DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts, and will be streamed live on ESPN2.
A pre‑game fan rally is slated for Friday evening at Off the Rails, a local hotspot in Worcester, giving supporters a chance to rally behind the team before the big game.
Star Players to Watch
Wisconsin’s recent win highlighted the contributions of senior forward Simon Tassy, who opened the scoring on the power play and added a late insurance goal, senior defenseman Jack Horbach, whose third‑period tally broke a 1‑1 tie, and forward Christian Fitzgerald, who celebrated his 100th career NCAA point with an empty‑net marker.
Youngster Charlie Stramel also added depth scoring, underscoring the Badgers’ balanced attack as they chase a regional title.
Spartans’ Strengths
Michigan State arrives as the Big Ten regular‑season champion with a 26‑8‑2 record. Freshman forward Porter Martone paces the offense with 25 goals and 49 points, while junior goaltender Trey Augustine has posted a .931 save percentage and 24 wins in 33 starts this season.
A Rivalry Renewed
The two programs have met 143 times, with Wisconsin holding a 67‑71‑4 overall record. The Badgers completed a season sweep of the Spartans, edging them 5‑4 in overtime and later securing a 2‑1 victory.
Analysts expect the upcoming contest to hinge on special‑teams efficiency and goaltending duels, making it one of the most anticipated regional finals in recent memory.