Casey O’Brien’s record-setting performance sends Badgers to WCHA Final Faceoff

The Badger faithful at LaBahn Arena showered O’Brien with adulation following the record-setting goal announcement in the final home game of her storied career, a career that should presumably add a Patty Kazmaier Award in a few weeks. O’Brien was also embraced by an ecstatic group of teammates when she returned to the bench.

“[The fan reaction] made me super emotional, honestly,” said O’Brien. “Wisconsin women’s hockey has the best fans in the country, I don’t know if you can question that. We get to know them and they mean so much to us. To feel that in that moment was just so cool, how much they care about us and how much they support us.”

Heck, even Casey O’Brien is not safe from Casey O’Brien, as the super senior broke her own school record for most assists in a season. She set the record last season with 50 helpers. After Saturday’s five-assist performance, she now sits at 55 assists this season.

Saturday’s spectacle felt like a fitting final home chapter for the graduating seniors. The Badgers dominated the game from a puck control standpoint on Friday, but it lacked the pomp and circumstance. On Saturday they celebrated with fireworks, leaving zero doubt about just how dominant this team can be when they fire on all cylinders. The eight first-period goals required only 12 shots, about as efficient as you’ll find in a high-level hockey game. After blitzing out to a big lead and putting the game on ice early, Wisconsin was able to enjoy their final home skate in front of a full house. With 33 wins and only one regulation loss to this point in the season, it’s safe to say they deserved to soak it in.

Next up for the Badgers is the Kwik Trip WCHA Final Faceoff semifinal against an opponent yet to be determined. Minnesota State forced a decisive game three against No. 4 Minnesota on Sunday. If Minnesota State manages to win that series, they will face off with Wisconsin. If not, it will be a de facto road game against No. 6 Minnesota Duluth after they swept No. 11 St. Cloud State in their first-round matchup.

Addendum: I’ve been supporting both Badger hockey programs since I enrolled back in 2008. I moved out of state, so this was my first weekend actually making it to LaBahn, and what a cool place to watch a game. I encourage any Badger fan who hasn’t made it out to go as soon as you can. Wisconsin women’s hockey is the most dominant program you’ll find on campus. It’s an intimate environment full of rabid hockey fans, and it’s just a cool barn. Really enjoyed my first trip and can’t wait to make a few more next year.