Gov. Mikie Sherrill joined a nation of celebrating fans Sunday morning in applauding Devils center Jack Hughes, whose overtime goal handed the United States men’s hockey team its first gold medal since 1980.
With the game tied 1-1 and 1:41 into overtime, Hughes received a pass from defenseman Zach Werenski and shot the puck past Team Canada goalie Jordan Binnington for the 2-1 win, snapping the United States’ 46-year gold medal drought.
Sherrill quote-posted a video of the goal on X and shared her message to Hughes and Team USA.
“New Jersey’s own Jack Hughes – Olympic hero!” Sherrill said. “Congratulations to him and all of @TeamUSA.”
Hughes’ goal came after he received a high stick from Team Canada forward Sam Bennett, who hit Hughes in the mouth. The stick chipped two of Hughes’ teeth and led to a four-minute power play for the United States.
Hughes, who won the gold medal alongside his brother Quinn, was still in shock after the game.
“I can’t even believe this,” Hughes said via The Associated Press. “I mean it’s such an unbelievable game, USA-Canada. Such a good game. There’s so many great players. We’re a great team. That’s exactly how we wanted it to go. We’re underdogs to Canada, (but we) beat them. It could have gone either way.”
Hughes also spoke about the impact the win had on the United States.
“This is all about our country right now,” Hughes said. “I love the U.S.A. I love my teammates. It’s unbelievable. The USA Hockey brotherhood is so strong.”