Sweep Against West Texas Recap and Upcoming Austin Ice Bats Final Home Weekend of 2025

The Austin Ice Bats closed out the weekend of November 21–22 with two strong wins over the West Texas Wranglers, and the team carried that momentum into several major announcements ahead of the Austin Ice Bats final home weekend of 2025. Because of the sweep, the Bats moved into 9th place in the NA3HL Top Ten, marking an important step forward as the season reached its middle point. Throughout the weekend, players hit new milestones, the roster gained talent, and the team continued to build momentum

Jake Bamback Continued to Lead the South Division

The weekend also featured another standout performance from Jake Bamback (#7). He remained the South Division points leader with 51 total points, and he added 8 of those points during the week. Thanks to his speed, confidence, and vision, Bamback earned the title of NA3HL South Star of the Week. His play drove the offense and set the pace for the team, and his consistency played a major role in the Bats’ success.

Guhnar Hillman Reached His 100th Junior Point

Forward Guhnar Hillman (#24) reached a major career milestone by recording his 100th Junior hockey point. This achievement highlighted his steady growth, strong work ethic, and consistent production. Hillman continued to lead by example each night, and his impact showed both on the scoresheet and inside the locker room. Because of this, his teammates relied on him in key moments throughout the weekend.

Roster Updates: Welcoming Beau Keller and Welcoming Back Dylan Jimenez

The Ice Bats added more depth to the roster during the weekend. Beau Keller (#29) joined the team as a defenseman, and stepped right into his role. His style fit the Bats’ structure well and strengthened the defensive core.

The team also welcomed back Dylan Jimenez, who had recently spent time competing in the NAHL. His experience at a higher level helped him grow as a player, and he returned ready to contribute in meaningful ways. His energy and speed gave the team more options moving forward.

Ice Bats Rose to 9th in the League

With the weekend sweep, the Ice Bats climbed to 9th place in the NA3HL Top Ten. This rise showed steady improvement and reflected the players’ commitment to stronger practices, faster play, and better execution. As the team continued to focus on structure and discipline, the Bats aimed to keep rising in the rankings.

Official 2024–2025 Team Captains Announced

The Austin Ice Bats also announced the official captains for the 2024–2025 season.

Captain:

• #24 Guhnar Hillman — Forward

Assistant Captains:

• #7 Jake Bamback — Forward

• #16 Garrett Morris — Forward

• #28 Ethan Salter — Defenseman

Each member of this leadership group earned their position through consistent effort, strong communication, and a clear commitment to pushing the team toward success. Their leadership guided the locker room and supported the development of younger players.

A Thanksgiving Message from the Organization

As the Ice Bats wrapped up their first weekend off since the start of the season, the organization expressed genuine gratitude. The team appreciated every fan, billet family, sponsor, partner, and volunteer who continued to support the program. Their dedication created a positive environment for the players and helped the team grow within the Austin community.

The organization also thanked the athletes, coaches, and staff for their hard work throughout the season. Their drive and passion made each weekend possible.

We hope everyone enjoyed a warm and joyful Thanksgiving. The team returned to the ice rested, focused, and ready for another strong stretch of games.

Looking Ahead: Final Home Weekend of 2025

As the team wrapped up Thanksgiving break, the Ice Bats also looked ahead to a major moment on the schedule. This upcoming weekend marks the Austin Ice Bats final home weekend of 2025, and we hope to see the Austin community pack the rink for a full three-game series against the Tulsa Jr. Oilers. The series will run Friday at 8:00 PM, Saturday at 6:45 PM, and Sunday at 12:30 PM.

To make the final homestand even more exciting, all children 18 and under will receive free admission for every game this weekend. Fans can also enjoy our usual Skate With the Players event after Saturday night’s game, giving families a chance to meet the team on the ice.

As always at our home games, any adult 21+ who purchases a ticket receives 20% off their tab at The Fieldhouse at The Crossover when they show their ticket. It’s a standing game-day perk that adds to the full experience and gives fans a great spot to enjoy drinks before during and/or after each game

Throughout the weekend, we will host raffles and auctions, and several special items will be going live on Dash for bidding. With giveaways, exclusive merch, and the final home-ice action of the year, this weekend is set to be a memorable closing chapter to our 2025 home schedule.