Casey O’Brien, who recently celebrated her victory in the 2025 NCAA women’s ice hockey national championship with the Wisconsin Badgers, has achieved yet another milestone in her career. She was selected as the third overall pick in the 2025 PWHL Draft, marking a significant moment for both O’Brien and the New York Sirens.
O’Brien’s career is highlighted by several notable achievements, including breaking school records with a total of 88 points, comprised of 26 goals and 62 assists. One of the most prestigious honors O’Brien has received is the 2025 Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award. This award is presented annually to the top player in NCAA Division I women’s ice hockey and recognizes exceptional individual and team skills, sportsmanship, and a passion for the game—qualities that O’Brien exemplifies.
‘I come from a family of hockey players with my dad and brothers. Their love for the game is what got me on the ice and ignited my passion for hockey,’ O’Brien said. ‘Their support and guidance have been instrumental in my career.’
Since capping off an impressive fifth-year at Wisconsin, O’Brien was a top pick for the New York Sirens in the 2025 PWHL Draft. The professional ice hockey league for women was established in 2023 and began its inaugural season the same year.
‘This entire year feels unreal. For two years, we heard that this league could become a reality, and when it did, I realized that I could take the next step in my career,’ O’Brien said. ‘There was no place I preferred to go ahead of the draft, and it couldn’t have been scripted better for me and my family than hearing my name called to play for my hometown team.’
New York Sirens select Casey O’Brien third overall
In the 2025 PWHL Draft, the New York Sirens selected Casey O’Brien, the 2025 Patty Kazmaier Award winner and a center forward, with the third overall pick. This selection was part of a trade that sent veteran defender Ella Shelton to the Toronto Sceptres in exchange for Toronto’s third overall pick.
‘Now, returning to New York as a professional player and giving back to the community that shaped me is truly a dream come true,’ O’Brien said.
When does the PWHL season start?
The 2025 season schedule for the Professional Women’s Hockey League has not yet been released. However, last season began on Saturday, November 30th, and consisted of 90 games, with each team playing 30 regular-season games.