Will Horcoff said on March 20 that he embraces the pressure of high-level hockey, reflecting on a season marked by significant achievements. The Pittsburgh Penguins prospect was selected 24th overall in the first round of the NHL Draft, excelled in his sophomore year at the University of Michigan, and represented Team USA at the 2026 World Junior Championship.
Horcoff’s journey is notable as he balances academic pursuits as an economics major with athletic success. He finished the regular NCAA season tied for fourth in goals with 23 and recorded 36 points in as many games. “I honestly embrace it, and then go work my absolute hardest,” Horcoff said. “That’s kind of my thought process behind that, just give it your all.”
The Michigan Wolverines, who finished first in the Big Ten with a record of 26-7-1, are now aiming for a National Championship. Horcoff contributed to their Big Ten Tournament run with key performances, including a power-play goal against Notre Dame. He credited Head Coach Brandon Naurato and Strength Coach Joe Maher for their roles in his development: “I’m super glad that (Head Coach Brandon Naurato) and his development process have been put in place for me this past year,” Horcoff said. “He’s just been super dialed. I wouldn’t be in the spot that I am today without him.” On Maher, he added: “He’s got an incredible program for us off the ice, especially these past couple of years. It’s just really individually based, and I feel like that’s something that I’ve needed to work on this past year.”
Horcoff also discussed his experience representing Team USA at the World Junior Championship held in Saint Paul at Grand Casino Arena. Despite falling short against Finland in overtime during the Quarterfinals, he valued both the competition and camaraderie among NCAA rivals turned teammates: “We all played against each other,” Horcoff said. “I just thought, even though we were on different teams, we came together right away… It was really cool, and something that I’ll never forget.” He added about playing under pressure: “That tournament was a great learning experience… I learned a ton on how to handle pressure in those big moments. I’m super happy I got to go through that at a young age.”
Looking ahead, Horcoff will compete with Michigan in the NCAA Regional Tournament from March 27-29; if successful they will advance to the Frozen Four from April 9-11.
The Pittsburgh Penguins organization has a history of Hall of Fame players, coaches and executives who have contributed significantly to its legacy according to the official website. The team has achieved numerous playoff appearances and division titles over its history according to the official website. The Penguins are recognized as an important part of Pittsburgh’s sports culture due to strong fan traditions and community ties according to the official website. Home games are hosted at PPG Paints Arena located downtown according to the official website. Fenway Sports Group owns the franchise and manages its business operations according to the official website.
For now, Penguins fans continue following Horcoff’s progress closely as he develops further before joining their ranks professionally. “I’m super thankful, and I have the utmost respect for the Penguins and Penguins fans,” Horcoff said. “It means a lot to see them following my story and saying nice things about me when I’m doing well. It’s super nice to have the best fans behind my back.”
