Penn State hockey drew 75,000 fans to Beaver Stadium for an outdoor game, a milestone for a program that became an NCAA sport just 15 years ago. The event showcased the school's aggressive NIL strategy after forward Gavin McKenna, the presumptive No. 1 NHL draft pick, joined the Nittany Lions. McKenna scored two goals in a 5-4 overtime loss to Michigan State, highlighting Penn State's rapid ascent since its first Frozen Four appearance in 2025. Penn State deputy athletic director Vinnie James called the outdoor game 'surreal,' crediting the school's investment in competitive player packages that include elite training facilities matching NHL standards.