Michigan State Hockey Closes the Chapter: Spartans Hand Out Team Awards After Memorable Season

The Spartans’ season came to an abrupt end almost a month ago.

For some, the shock of defeat to Wisconsin—despite holding a two-goal lead with just five minutes remaining—still sends shivers down the spine. For others, that crippling loss has already faded into the background.

But staying in the past and holding onto that pain does little good. As the saying goes, it’s like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.

Michigan State has remained in the spotlight over the past few days, adding an impressive set of talent through the transfer portal while filling key roster spots vacated by graduating players, professionals, and outgoing transfers.

Even with all the moving pieces and the focus on building toward a fourth straight Big Ten title, the program still found time for one final gathering—an annual team celebration to close the season.

It was a chance to laugh, to live, and to be together one last time.

A moment where the team didn’t need to relive that nightmare against the Badgers, but instead could reflect on everything they accomplished. Three Big Ten titles for many of the players. The bonds built. The memories created. Conversations about the future—who will step up, who will lead, and what comes next.

There were also plenty of lighter moments. Stories shared, jokes told, and even discussions about the red-hot start Porter Martone has made in the NHL with the Philadelphia Flyers.

This wasn’t some over-the-top awards show. There were no Timothée Chalamet or Leonardo DiCaprio appearances. Just a group of Spartans enjoying one final night together before each player moves on to the next chapter of life.

As part of the tradition, the Spartans handed out their annual team awards—honors that can make people laugh, cry, smile, or quietly reflect.

Michigan State Hockey Team Awards:

Some of the more memorable moments came from the personality-driven awards.

Ryker Lee, a returning freshman who represented Team USA at the World Junior Championship, took home the Goofus Award. It’s a fitting honor for a player who stayed true to himself all season—never wavering in personality and consistently bringing energy to the locker room. That same presence will be important as he returns next season, likely stepping into a leadership role.

Porter Martone, unsurprisingly, dominated the offensive categories, taking home both Outstanding Rookie and Outstanding Offensive Player. After breaking onto the NHL scene, Martone recorded nine points in nine games, helping push the Flyers toward a playoff berth.

Another Team USA representative, Shane Vansaghi—who played under Michigan State head coach Adam Nightingale at the international level—earned the Spartan Fitness Award, highlighting his work ethic and conditioning.

Captain Matt Basgall, the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, was one of the night’s biggest winners. He earned the Spartan Shield Award, Outstanding Defensive Player Award, and the BLC President’s Award—cementing his impact on both ends of the ice and in the locker room.

Charlie Stramel, who transferred into East Lansing and made his presence felt, took home the Outstanding Senior Award. His departure will leave a noticeable void as the Spartans move forward.

Meanwhile, Owen West earned Most Improved Player honors and will return next season, continuing his upward trajectory.

In the end, the Spartans fell short of their ultimate goal, exiting earlier than they had hoped against a team that would go on to play for a championship.

Still, this was a group that accomplished more than most.

A team that will be remembered.

A team that has secured its place in the legacy of Michigan State hockey.