In game one of the NIT the Wisconsin Seniors in red uniforms faced the Minnesota Juniors in white uniforms. The first period was fast paced with offensive opportunities for both teams. For the first 10 minutes it was scoreless, and it looked evenly matched.

Minnesota scored to take a 1-0 lead with 6:29 remaining on the clock. Unfortunately, Minnesota’s first goal led to three additional goals in a span of about three minutes. Minnesota’s defense controlled the game in Wisconsin’s defensive zone. Minnesota’s puck movement was excellent. The first period ended with Minnesota up 4-0 and outshooting Wisconsin 15-9.

In the second period Wisconsin came out with energy. In the first couple of shifts Wisconsin beat Minnesota to 50/50 pucks and had the better play. Wisconsin scored three minutes into the second period when Nathan Antti put the puck in the net with an assist from Carter Drexler. Wisconsin’s momentum did not last long. Minnesota scored a minute later to get the lead back to four goals. Minnesota scored two more goals, and the second period ended with Minnesota up 7-1 and outshooting Wisconsin 27-12.

Max Bennett scored twice in the third period for Wisconsin Seniors. Wyatt Ehrhardt got the assist on Bennett’s first goal, and Gabe Pankratz and Calvin Zinda had assists on the second goal. The final score was Minnesota Juniors 10, Wisconsin Seniors 3. Minnesota outshot Wisconsin 38-14.