North Dakota Welcomes Back Top College Hockey Rivalry in Exciting NCHC Clash
The University of Minnesota Golden Gophers and North Dakota Fighting Hawks reignite their storied college hockey rivalry in a thrilling NCHC series. Fans eagerly anticipate the intense matches at Ralph Engelstad Arena, where the teams previously clashed on October 20 and 21, 2023. Minnesota won the first game 4-0, while North Dakota claimed victory in the second game, ending 2-1.
Historic Rivalry: Minnesota vs. North Dakota
The Minnesota vs. North Dakota rivalry began in 1948 when UND defeated Minnesota 5-3. Spanning several decades, their matchups remain central to collegiate hockey. Both universities once competed in the WCHA before joining the Big Ten and NCHC, respectively. Minnesota leads the all-time series with a record of 145 wins, 137 losses, and 16 ties.
Achievements and Players
- Minnesota: 42 NCAA tournament appearances, 23 Frozen Four appearances, 5 national championships
- North Dakota: 35 NCAA tournament appearances, 22 Frozen Four appearances, 8 national championships
In NCAA Tournament history, the teams met five times, with Minnesota winning the 1979 NCAA Championship final 4-3. Minnesota has produced 69 All-Americans and four Hobey Baker winners, while North Dakota boasts 82 All-Americans and two Hobey Baker winners.
Draft Prospects
This season sees a total of 25 NHL draft picks between the teams, with Minnesota having 13 and North Dakota 12. North Dakota’s freshman defenseman Keaton Verhoeff is projected to be a top-three pick in the 2026 NHL draft.
Recent NCHC Highlights
In recent NCHC action, the Miami RedHawks had an impressive opening, nearly sweeping the league honors. Ilia Morozov, Matteo Drobac, and Kocha Delic earned individual accolades, while Denver’s Eric Pohlkamp shone in defense.
- Ilia Morozov: Forward of the Week, 3 goals, 3 assists in two games
- Matteo Drobac: Goaltender of the Week, 52 saves over two games
- Kocha Delic: Rookie of the Week, 5 points in a weekend
- Eric Pohlkamp: Defenseman of the Week, 4 points over the weekend
Miami RedHawks’ Hot Start
The Miami RedHawks opened strongly with back-to-back weekend sweeps over RPI and Ferris State, not witnessed since the 2012-13 season. They outscored opponents 19-8 and recorded a 4-0 start, reminiscent of their 2007-08 season streak.
Other Key Matches
Minnesota Duluth prepares to face their Northern Minnesota rivals, Bemidji State Beavers. Meanwhile, St. Cloud State heads to Vermont for the first time since 2006, and Arizona State visits South Dakota to challenge Augustana. These fixtures contribute to a captivating NCHC season.
