Sports
Minnesota State Mavericks Win CCHA Championship, Secure NCAA Tournament Bid
Minnesota State defeated St. Thomas to win the CCHA championship for the second straight year, securing an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. The Mavericks' victory marks their fourth Mason Cup title since the CCHA was reconstituted in the 2021-22 season.
Minnesota State edged out St. Thomas to win the conference championship game. Junior defenseman Evan Murr and senior forward Tristan Lemyre each contributed a goal and two assists in the victory. Goalie Alex Tracy allowed only one goal. Junior Luigi Benincasa and senior Jack Smith each scored in the third period. Senior captain Mason Wheeler blocked a season-high 11 shots.
Key Facts
- Minnesota State has won the CCHA championship.
- The Mavericks defeated St. Thomas in the final.
- Evan Murr and Tristan Lemyre each had a goal and two assists.
- Alex Tracy was the winning goalie.
- Luigi Benincasa and Jack Smith scored third-period goals.
- Mason Wheeler blocked 11 shots.
- Minnesota State secured an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
- The Mavericks moved up to No. 14 in the National Collegiate Percentage Index.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- Sports Illustrated — A Wild Start to Hockey's Championship Weekend and Bracketology Update: Puck Drop