Kirsten Simms’ clutch performance propelled Wisconsin to a thrilling victory over Ohio State, securing the NCAA women’s hockey championship.

The NCAA Women’s Ice Hockey Championship game between the University of Wisconsin and Ohio State University in 2025 will forever be remembered as one of the most thrilling contests in the history of collegiate hockey. What made this game stand out even more was the performance of Wisconsin’s own Kirsten Simms, whose heroics in the final moments of the game helped propel the Badgers to a 4-3 victory, securing their sixth national title in the program’s storied history.

Simms, a standout forward, was nothing short of sensational throughout the game, but it was her clutch performance in the third period that solidified her status as a true championship player. Her dazzling speed, exceptional stickhandling, and ability to perform under pressure came to the forefront when Wisconsin needed her the most. With the game tied at 3-3 and the clock winding down, Simms took matters into her own hands, scoring the game-winning goal with just under two minutes remaining.

This victory was not only a testament to the skill and determination of the Wisconsin team but also an incredible showcase of Simms’ ability to rise to the occasion. In this article, we will take a closer look at the game itself, Simms’ remarkable journey to this moment, and the impact her performance had on both the team and the broader landscape of women’s college hockey.

The Road to the Championship

The Wisconsin Badgers entered the 2025 NCAA Women’s Hockey Tournament as one of the favorites to win the national championship. Having finished the regular season as the top-ranked team in the country, Wisconsin had been dominant throughout the season, posting an impressive record of 29-5-1. The team’s success was built on a strong defense, outstanding goaltending, and a high-powered offense. But it was the leadership and playmaking ability of players like Simms that set them apart.

Simms, a junior from Ontario, had been one of Wisconsin’s best players all season. She was the team’s top scorer, with 22 goals and 18 assists in the regular season. Her dynamic playing style, marked by explosive speed and an uncanny ability to read the game, made her a constant threat on the ice. But Simms had always been someone who relished the biggest moments—whether it was scoring a game-winning goal or setting up a critical play. Her ability to rise to the occasion would prove crucial in Wisconsin’s pursuit of the championship.

After easily dispatching their first two opponents in the tournament, the Badgers found themselves in the national championship game against the defending champions, Ohio State. The Buckeyes, led by a high-powered offense and a stout defense, had proved themselves to be worthy challengers throughout the tournament. With the game taking place in a packed arena, the atmosphere was electric, and it was clear that the stage was set for an unforgettable showdown.

A Back-and-Forth Battle

From the very first puck drop, the championship game between Wisconsin and Ohio State was a fast-paced, high-intensity affair. Both teams traded scoring opportunities, and it quickly became apparent that this would not be a game for the faint of heart. Ohio State opened the scoring midway through the first period with a power-play goal from their star forward, Madison Azevedo. The Buckeyes’ early lead was a testament to their offensive prowess and ability to capitalize on special teams opportunities.

However, Wisconsin quickly responded. Just minutes after Ohio State’s goal, Simms took control of the puck in the neutral zone, evading a defender with a slick move, and then threading a perfect pass to fellow forward Maddy Kavanagh. Kavanagh, in full stride, unleashed a powerful wrist shot that beat Ohio State’s goaltender, Rylee Davis, to tie the game at 1-1. Simms’ vision and playmaking ability were on full display, and her contribution to the goal was a clear indication of her importance to the team’s success.

The game continued to be a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showcasing their offensive skill and defensive resilience. Ohio State regained the lead in the second period when they capitalized on another power-play opportunity, this time with a blast from the point by defenseman Mackenzie Duran. As the Buckeyes celebrated their second goal, Wisconsin’s players were not discouraged. They knew they had the talent and the firepower to get back into the game.

Simms, as always, was at the heart of Wisconsin’s response. With the Badgers trailing 2-1 late in the second period, Simms received a pass in the neutral zone and, once again, showed off her exceptional speed. She darted past an Ohio State defender, cut to the middle of the ice, and fired a shot that was blocked by Davis. However, Simms didn’t give up on the play. She quickly corralled the rebound and passed it to freshman forward Audrey Young, who buried the puck into the back of the net to tie the game at 2-2.

Simms’ unrelenting drive and leadership were evident as she worked tirelessly to get her team back on track. Wisconsin entered the third period with a renewed sense of determination, knowing that the championship was within reach if they could just stay composed and keep pushing forward.

The Heroic Third Period

The third period was a testament to the resilience and mental toughness of both teams. With the score tied at 2-2, the intensity reached a fever pitch. Both Wisconsin and Ohio State had their chances, but neither team was able to break the deadlock. The goaltenders, Wisconsin’s Kennedy Blair and Ohio State’s Rylee Davis, were standing tall, making crucial saves to keep their respective teams in the game.

But with just over five minutes remaining, the tide began to turn in Wisconsin’s favor. Simms, ever the clutch player, was once again in the right place at the right time. The Badgers had been controlling possession in the offensive zone when Simms won a crucial battle along the boards. She managed to break free from a defender and fired a shot on net that Davis saved. However, the rebound came right to Simms, who quickly fired again, this time with precision, and the puck sailed past Davis to give Wisconsin a 3-2 lead.

The goal sent the Wisconsin faithful into a frenzy, but the game was far from over. Ohio State responded just minutes later when a miscue in Wisconsin’s defensive zone allowed the Buckeyes to capitalize on a turnover. With the game tied 3-3 and time ticking down, it seemed as though the championship would be decided in overtime. But Simms had other plans.

With under two minutes remaining, Simms made a dazzling play that would define her legacy at Wisconsin. After receiving a pass from Kavanagh in the neutral zone, she accelerated down the ice, splitting two Ohio State defenders with a beautiful move. She entered the offensive zone with only Davis to beat. As Davis lunged to cut off her angle, Simms calmly deked to her backhand and slid the puck into the open side of the net, giving Wisconsin a 4-3 lead with just 1:38 left on the clock.

The Badger bench erupted as Simms’ game-winning goal sent Wisconsin one step closer to their sixth NCAA championship. Ohio State pushed hard in the final minute, pulling Davis for an extra attacker, but the Badgers’ defense stood firm. Kennedy Blair made a final, game-sealing save with just seconds remaining, and the horn sounded to signal Wisconsin’s victory.

Simms’ Heroics and Legacy

Kirsten Simms’ performance in the NCAA Women’s Hockey Championship game was nothing short of legendary. She finished the game with two goals, one assist, and was named the game’s Most Outstanding Player. Her ability to perform in high-pressure moments, combined with her skill and determination, made her the clear standout in the game. Simms’ leadership throughout the tournament, and especially in the final, cemented her place as one of the brightest stars in women’s college hockey.

In the post-game celebration, Simms was visibly emotional as she hugged her teammates and coaches. She knew that this victory wasn’t just about her—it was about the entire team’s collective effort. “This is a team win,” Simms said in her post-game interview. “I couldn’t have done it without my teammates. Everyone gave everything they had tonight, and we came together when it mattered most. This is something we’ll all remember forever.”

Head coach Mark Johnson, who has built Wisconsin into one of the premier programs in women’s hockey, couldn’t have been prouder of his players. “Kirsten Simms is a special player. She’s been incredible for us all season, and tonight she showed the world what she’s capable of. But this win is a reflection of the entire team. They all stepped up when it counted, and I couldn’t be prouder of their effort.”

For Simms, this victory was the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. The championship win solidified her legacy at Wisconsin, and she would go down in history as one of the program’s all-time greats. As for the future, Simms’ performance in the championship game only increased her stock as one of the most promising players in women’s hockey, and many fans eagerly awaited her next move, whether it be in professional hockey or beyond.