The University of Denver athletic department celebrated its achievements during the 2025-26 season at the annual Crimson Carpet Awards. Highlights include 106 home wins, 12 conference championships, and men's ice hockey winning its 11th national title. The department also honored individual accomplishments, including nine All-American awards and significant community service recognition. Notable athletes included Johnny Hicks and Lexi Gwaku as student-athletes of the year, showcasing the depth of talent within the program.

By the Numbers
  • DU athletics achieved 106 home victories this season.
  • The program claimed 12 conference championships but also faced 27 losses to teams from major conferences.
Yes, But

Despite the successes, the achievement against top-tier teams raises questions about consistency and competitiveness in high-pressure matchups.

State of Play
  • The athletics program is riding a wave of momentum with several teams excelling at national levels.
  • Men's ice hockey achieved a milestone with its national championship, reinforcing the program's reputation.
What's Next

Looking ahead, the department aims to build on this year's success by focusing on recruitment and training to enhance competitiveness in postseason tournaments.

Bottom Line

The University of Denver athletics not only celebrated a season of triumphs but also highlighted the importance of continuous improvement as they prepare for future challenges in collegiate sports.