Early Sunday afternoon, the Princeton Tigers men’s ice hockey team brought a whole new meaning to “Sunday Funday” as they defeated Brown University in overtime, earning their first win against the Bears since February 24, 2024. The thrilling victory marked another important step forward for Princeton, both on the scoreboard and in confidence, as the Tigers extended their winning streak to six games.
Princeton entered the contest looking for redemption after falling to Brown earlier this season in an Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) matchup back in November. That loss extended a difficult stretch against the Bears dating back to last season, where the Tigers posted a 0-2-1 record in the series. Although Sunday’s matchup was a non-league game and did not impact either ECAC or Ivy League standings, it proved to be a pivotal test for Princeton’s momentum, resilience and overall team chemistry.
Brown University struck first nearly halfway through the opening period when Mike Cataldo found the back of the net, giving the Bears an early 1-0 advantage. Princeton responded with urgency, creating consistent offensive pressure and ultimately tying the game when Jake Manfre scored, assisted by David Jacobs. However, just seconds before the period expired, Brown regained the lead as Brendan Tighe capitalized late to make it 2-1. Despite trailing on the scoreboard, the Tigers dominated possession and shot opportunities, outshooting Brown 12-3 in the opening frame, a strong indicator of the momentum to come.
The second period began with an immediate spark for Princeton as Brendan Gorman netted a shorthanded goal early on, with assists from Jaxson Ezman and Tyler Rubin. Brown responded midway through the period with a goal from Ivan Zadvernyuk, reclaiming the lead, but the Tigers refused to back down. With just over four minutes remaining in the period, Kai Daniells delivered a huge offensive surge, scoring two goals just 39 seconds apart. Nick Marciano assisted on both goals, while Tyler Rubin added an assist on the first. Princeton closed the period with a 4-3 lead, their first of the game, while showcasing strong defensive play in front of goaltender Conor Callaghan.
The third period was a nail-biter as Brown’s Ben Poitras tied the game at 4-4, setting the stage for a dramatic overtime finish. In overtime, Princeton locked in defensively, allowing Brown just one shot on goal. With less than a minute remaining, the Tigers capitalized when Jaxson Ezman deflected in the game winning goal, sealing a hard-fought overtime victory.
Princeton finished the afternoon outshooting Brown 51-20, a testament to their offensive pressure and depth. Notable performances came from Brendan Gorman (6 goals, 6 assists), Jake Manfre (7 goals, 4 assists), Kai Daniells (10 goals, 4 assists), and David Jacobs (7 assists), all of whom continue to contribute consistently during Princeton’s impressive stretch of play.
The Tigers now sit in fourth place in the ECAC standings and their next matchup is this upcoming weekend, a home ECAC meeting against Dartmouth University.
