Princeton University Athletics
Wunder, Kuehl, and O'Leary Drafted into the PWHL
June 18, 2026 | Women's Ice Hockey
PRINCETON, N.J. - Three Princeton Women's Ice Hockey standouts took the next step in their hockey journeys Tuesday night as Issy Wunder, Emerson O'Leary, and Jane Kuehl were selected in the 2026 PWHL Draft.
This trio helped lead Princeton to one of the most successful seasons in recent program history; becoming Ivy League Co-Champions, making an ECAC semifinal appearance and NCAA Tournament appearance.Â
Issy Wunder was picked 13th overall by Las Vegas in the second round. The Toronto native capped her Princeton career as one of the most decorated players in recent years.Â
"Issy has had an instrumental impact on our program both on and off the ice, as well as throughout the community," shared Head Coach Courtney Kessel. "She won the Mandy Schwartz Award for a reason. Issy is an unbelievable leader, humble, hardworking, and deeply respected and loved by her teammates. She consistently puts others first and represents everything that is special about Princeton Hockey. We are absolutely going to miss Issy and everything she has meant to the Tigers and the Princeton program. Her legacy will be felt for years to come, and we are excited to see all that she accomplishes in the future."
Jane Kuehl was selected 44th overall by Toronto Sceptres in the fourth round of the Draft. In her time as a Tiger, Kuehl proved to be a consistent contributor on the ice.Â
"We relied on Jane in many different situations this year," said Kessel. "Her skating ability was a tremendous asset to our team, and her speed consistently helped us create opportunities and break games open. Beyond her talent on the ice, Jane brings incredible energy every day. She shows up with a smile, works hard, and is always willing to do whatever the team needs to be successful. Jane is a fantastic teammate whose positive attitude and commitment make those around her better, and her contributions to our program have been invaluable."
Emerson O'Leary was selected 56th overall by the Toronto Sceptres in the fifth round of the draft. O'Leary proved to be a strong two-way asset on the ice and capped off a standout senior season.Â
"For four years, Emmy was a consistent offensive producer for our program," Kessel explained. "As a senior, she reached the remarkable milestone of 100 career points, a testament to her talent, dedication, and consistency throughout her time with the Tigers. Emmy has an exceptional ability to see the ice and make plays, continually putting her teammates in positive situations and creating scoring opportunities. Her vision and hockey IQ are invaluable and have been a major part of our success. Beyond her offensive contributions, Emmy played a significant role defensively this season. We relied on her in many critical late-game situations because of her poise, competitiveness, and trustworthiness in all areas of the ice."
With the PWHL season set to begin in late November, keep an eye on our Tigers as they embark on their professional journeys.
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