In 2017-18, Mikey Anderson was part of a youth movement that engulfed the University of Minnesota Duluth defensive corps. One of five rookies to see fulltime duty on the Bulldog blue line, he concluded his debut season with 23 points (the second highest total of any UMD freshman) on five goals and 18 assists in 39 games.

Now with one year -- and an NCAA national championship -- tucked under his belt, Anderson, a Los Angeles Kings' draftee, continues to be a staple on the back end for the No. 2 Bulldogs. About the only thing that has changed is his number (he wore No. 3 as a newcomer).

Incidentally, Anderson's favorite opponent (North Dakota) is in town this Friday and Saturday for a pair of National Collegiate Hockey Conference showdowns.

HIS FAVORITES
Opponent: North Dakota
Opponent Arena: Lawson Ice Arena (Western Michigan)
Road Trip: Colorado Springs, Colo.
Professional Athlete: Roger Federer
Professional Team: Minnesota Vikings
College Course: General Psychology
Pastime: Playing card games
Prized Possession: My national championship ring
Book (Author): Hunger Games (Suzanne Collins)
Television Show: Prison Break
Actor/Actress: Leonardo DiCaprio/Blake Lively
Movie: The Great Gatsby
Singer/Group: Dan + Shay
Food: Salmon
Restaurant: Chipotle
Video Game: NHL 19
Vacation Spot: Anywhere on a lake
Mobile App: Spotify

UP CLOSE
Why I Chose UMD: The Bulldog hockey tradition, the coaching staff and the opportunity to compete for a national championship.
First Played Competitive Hockey: When I was around four years old.
Hockey Strength/Weakness: My hockey IQ/My shot
Game Day Ritual: Nap for an hour.
Most Memorable UMD Hockey Moment: Winning the NCAA title last year.
Best Player I've Ever Faced: (Former University of Denver right winger) Troy Terry
Pet Peeve: Leaving lights on
Biggest Fear: Snakes
First Job (Age): Coaching hockey camps (16)
Person I'd Most Like to Meet: Will Ferrell
Why I Wear No. 24: I wore it in high school
What Most People Don't Know About Me: I like to cook.
Something I Never Leave Home Without: Burt's Bees Chapstick
If I Could Change One Thing About Myself: I'd know how to play the piano.
Sport I'd Like to Try Someday: Surfing
Influences on My Athletic Career: My family
The Best Thing About College Hockey: Playing in front of student sections and the loud atmosphere.
My Advice to an Aspiring Young Athlete: Have fun and enjoy the process!