NEWARK, N.J. — Jack Hughes returned to a thunderous ovation in New Jersey this week, as fans celebrated the hometown star’s Olympic gold-medal triumph with Team USA.

The 22-year-old forward, who plays for the New Jersey Devils, was greeted by a packed and energized crowd at the Prudential Center, where chants of “U-S-A!” echoed through the arena as he took the ice with his medal in hand.

A Hero’s Welcome

Hughes played a pivotal role in the United States men’s national ice hockey team’s gold-medal run at the Winter Olympic Games, delivering key goals and assists throughout the tournament.

Before puck drop, the Devils honored Hughes in a pregame ceremony, featuring a highlight reel of his Olympic performance and a standing ovation that lasted several minutes. Teammates tapped their sticks in tribute as Hughes waved to the crowd.

“It’s special,” Hughes said after the game. “To bring a gold medal back home and share it with these fans — it means everything.”

Fueling the Devils’ Momentum

The electric atmosphere appeared to energize the Devils, who fed off the crowd’s intensity. Fans packed the lower bowl wearing red, white and blue gear alongside their Devils jerseys, creating a celebratory fusion of national pride and hometown loyalty.

Team officials said merchandise sales surged following the Olympic victory, with Hughes jerseys and commemorative gear in high demand.

A Rising Star

Already one of the NHL’s brightest young talents, Hughes’ Olympic performance further cemented his status as a franchise cornerstone for New Jersey. Analysts say the gold medal could mark a defining chapter in both his career and the Devils’ trajectory.

For one night, though, the focus wasn’t on standings or stats — it was on celebration.

As the final horn sounded, fans remained on their feet, saluting the local star who brought Olympic gold back to the Garden State.