The University of Denver Hockey program announced its 2025-26 team awards on May 13 during the 69th annual awards banquet held at Magness Arena.
The event recognized several players for their achievements over the season. Goaltender Johnny Hicks received both the Bill Masterton MVP and Barry Sharp Freshman of the Year honors, while senior captain Kent Anderson was named Dr. Ralph Verploeg Most Inspirational Player and earned his second Dr. Art Mason Top Scholar-Athlete award. Senior forward Rieger Lorenz was also honored for the second time as Murray Armstrong Most Improved Player.
Hicks helped lead Denver to its 11th national championship, becoming the first DU goaltender to remain unbeaten in his first 17 career decisions with a record of 16-0-1. He set an NCAA record with a .957 save percentage and tied for second-best all-time with a goals-against average of 1.19 in a single season. Hicks made notable performances in this year’s Frozen Four, including making a career-high 49 saves against Michigan and stopping 29 shots in the national championship game against Wisconsin.
Eric Pohlkamp was awarded Dallas Gaume Offensive Player after leading all Denver skaters and NCAA defensemen with 18 goals and totaling 39 points in 43 games. Boston Buckberger earned Keith Magnuson Best Defensive Player by scoring a career-high ten goals, finishing second among all NCAA players with a +32 plus-minus rating, and contributing key plays during postseason tournaments before signing an NHL contract.
Other honorees included Clarke Caswell as Dr. Ken Bredesen Most Sportsmanlike Player after leading rookies in scoring and assists, while alum Angelo Ricci received the Daniel Ritchie Spirit Award for his ongoing contributions to Denver hockey through coaching and volunteer work.
During the ceremony, graduating seniors delivered speeches reflecting on their experiences at DU. The program encouraged fans to follow updates on social media platforms.
