James Reeder, a sophomore forward, led all University of Denver hockey rookies in scoring last season.
The Glenview, Illinois, native appeared in all 44 matchups for the Pios in 2024-25 and finished with 11 goals and 10 assists for 21 points. He made his NCAA debut on Oct. 5, 2024 at Alaska Anchorage and scored his first collegiate goal in his second game the next day in Alaska—doing so on his 19th birthday.
During the NCAA Tournament, he registered his third career game-winning goal and took his only penalty of the season on March 30 against No. 1 Boston College in the Northeast Regional Final in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Before coming to Denver, Reeder spent two seasons with the Dubuque Fighting Saints. He appeared in 114 contests in the United States Hockey League and totaled 94 points with 35 goals and 59 assists. He also won a bronze medal with Team USA at 2023 World Jr. A Challenge.
Reeder was selected by the Los Angeles Kings in round 7 at No. 198th overall of the 2024 NHL Draft.
He is a business major at DU and wants to work in the financial sector if hockey doesn't work out.
Why did you choose the University of Denver?
"I chose Denver because of the hockey, schooling and location. The hockey team is very good at winning, and the coaches are great at moving kids onto the next level."
How did you get involved in hockey and what is your earliest memory of skating?
"I became involved in hockey when I saw the Stanley Cup after Chicago won it in 2010."
What are some of your favorite activities to do when you're not at the rink?
"I enjoy golfing with friends and wake surfing."
What are your plans for the future/after college?
"I plan to see how far hockey can take me. If that doesn't work out, I would like to go into some sort of financial job, preferably something to do with stock markets."
If you weren't playing hockey, what sport would you play?
"I would play football. I enjoy watching it on TV and playing fantasy football with my friends."
What kind of music do you like?
"I enjoy country music."
What is your go-to pre-game meal?
"My go-to pre-game meal is salmon with rice or spaghetti and grilled veggies."
Where is your favorite spot to vacation?
"I enjoy warm places such as Florida that have a beach and golf."
What is your favorite movie?
"My favorite movie is Remember the Titans."
Do you have a pre-game routine?
"My pre-game routine includes stretching and playing with a soccer ball with the rest of the team."
What is something that other people might not know about you?
"I am related to Abraham Lincoln. My grandma—my dad's mother—has a family tree that shows it."
What other sports have you participated in?
"I played baseball and soccer growing up for my town teams. Also, I played soccer during my sophomore year of high school."
Sophie Hamill contributed to this story.
