The 2025 World Junior Summer Showcase (WJSS) commenced on Sunday, July 27, with a compelling Game 1 matchup between USA White and Finland. Team USA, divided into White and Blue squads for the initial phase of the showcase to evaluate talent, ultimately secured a 5-2 victory over the Finns.

In goal, the United States initially started Nick Kempf, later transitioning to Caleb Heil during the second period. Finland relied on Kim Saarinen as their netminder for the entire game. The tournament is being held at Ridder Arena in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The game began with high intensity, characterized by physical play from both sides. Ryker Lee scored the first goal of the game, assisted by James Hagens, giving the United States an early 1-0 lead. However, Finland quickly responded, with Roope Vesterinen, assisted by Heikki Ruohonen and Veikka Mononen, tying the score at 1-1. Riding the momentum, Jasper Kuhta scored an unassisted goal before the end of the first period, putting Finland ahead 2-1.

The second period saw a single goal, with Teddy Stiga scoring for the United States, assisted by Dakoda Rheaume-Mullen and Hagens, leveling the score at 2-2. The remainder of the period was scoreless but physically engaging.

Team USA's depth shone in the third period, with back-to-back goals. Shane Vansaghi, assisted by Brodie Ziemer and Cullen Potter, scored the first, followed by another to extend the lead. The United States then focused on protecting their lead, ultimately securing a 5-2 victory over Finland.

Other games scheduled for the opening day of the WJSS included USA Blue versus Sweden. The tournament is an important evaluation opportunity for team USA as they prepare for the World Junior Championship, which will be held in St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota, beginning on December 26. The tournament features teams from the U.S., Sweden, Finland, and Canada. Games will be played between July 27 and August 2.