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Hastings Returns to Minnesota State: A Homecoming Showdown
10 Oct
Summary
- Mike Hastings returns to Minnesota State for the first time as Wisconsin coach.
- Hastings previously coached Minnesota State for 11 seasons with notable success.
- The No. 7 Wisconsin Badgers face the No. 19 Minnesota State Mavericks this weekend.
Fourth-year Wisconsin Badgers head coach Mike Hastings is set to make his first return to Minnesota State this weekend, where he served as head coach for 11 seasons (2012-2023). During his tenure, Hastings amassed a 299-110-25 record, leading the Mavericks to eight NCAA Tournament appearances and two Frozen Fours.
Hastings' initial season at Wisconsin saw a significant turnaround, nearly securing a Big Ten championship and reaching the NCAA Tournament. After a slight dip in his second year, the Badgers advanced to the national championship game last season.
The No. 7 Wisconsin Badgers, coming off a sweep of Robert Morris, will face the No. 19 Minnesota State Mavericks. Wisconsin's defense, anchored by NHL draft picks Logan Hensler and Luke Osburn, allowed only 18 shots per game in their opening series. While the offense averaged nearly 40 shots per game, converting those chances remains an emphasis.
Minnesota State, yet to officially begin their season, lost key offensive players but return Luigi Benincasa. Notably, former Badger Sawyer Scholl begins his senior season with the Mavericks. Wisconsin's junior center Gavin Morrissey has been pivotal in face-offs, dominating puck possession.
Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 9, and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, both in Mankato, Minn. Both games will be streamed on MIDCO Sports Plus with radio coverage on 1310 WIBA.
