Team USA’s men’s hockey team was welcomed at the White House ahead of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address. The visit followed their dramatic 2-1 overtime victory against Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
After the win, President Trump personally invited the team during a phone call. On Tuesday, Feb. 24, twenty players traveled to Washington, D.C. Several members — including Brock Nelson, Jackson LaCombe, Jake Oettinger, Jake Guentzel, and Kyle Connor — did not attend.
Reporters noted that some absent players had prior commitments. Corey Masisak reported that Brock Nelson returned to Denver to spend time with his family, while Diandra Loux stated that Guentzel was back in Tampa ahead of a scheduled home game.
Photos shared online showed the team standing outside the White House wearing matching navy sweaters featuring “USA,” the American flag, and the Olympic rings. The players proudly displayed their gold medals as they posed together.
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White House Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino also shared a video of the players greeting President Trump in the Oval Office. In his post, he congratulated the team on their Olympic success.
The players were expected to attend the State of the Union address later that evening. White House officials reportedly worked through scheduling arrangements to make the appearance possible.
The team’s championship marked a historic achievement, representing the United States’ first Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey since the iconic 1980 “Miracle on Ice.”
However, the visit sparked debate on social media. Some critics questioned the team’s decision to accept the invitation. In response, Jack Hughes addressed the controversy, emphasizing the team’s perspective.
“Everything is so political,” Hughes said. “We’re athletes. We’re proud to represent the United States, and visiting the White House is an honor.”
When asked about the U.S. women’s hockey team declining a similar invitation, Hughes suggested that scheduling conflicts were the reason. USA Hockey officials previously cited academic and professional commitments.
Hughes also commented on the criticism the team received online, noting the negativity often present on social media. He stressed the strong relationship between the men’s and women’s teams.
“We fully support them, and we’re proud of everything they’ve accomplished,” Hughes said.
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Quinn Hughes echoed similar sentiments during a television interview. He described the visit as a rare and meaningful experience while expressing support for the women’s team.
Their mother, Ellen Hughes, also shared her thoughts, highlighting the unifying power of sports. She emphasized how athletes can inspire unity and national pride.
USA Hockey representatives have not publicly commented on the players who were absent from the White House visit.
