Before the Black Bears vs Topeka | 2026 Commissioner's Cup Quarterfinals

BINGHAMTON- The playoffs have arrived, and with them comes a new opponent for the Black Bears as they prepare to face the Topeka Scarecrows. This will mark the first meeting in history between the two franchises.

Binghamton closed out the regular season on a high note, defeating the Danbury Hat Tricks in both games of a back-to-back series. The first contest featured a strong showing from the team’s rookies, who stepped up on the road. A solid start from C.J. Hapward, along with a multi-point performance from Ivan Bondarenko, highlighted the victory. Although Danbury mounted a late push, the Black Bears’ offense proved too much to overcome. The following night was a tighter contest, with the Hat Tricks striking first. However, the Black Bears responded quickly, scoring two goals in under a minute to take the lead for good. An empty-net goal by Dan Stone sealed a 3–1 victory. Binghamton finishes the season as the top team in the league with a 48-6-2 record, earning 143 points and first place in the Empire Division as they head into the opening round of the playoffs.

The Scarecrows concluded their regular season with a three-game series against the Indiana Sentinels. Indiana controlled the opener, scoring the go-ahead goal in the second period and maintaining the lead through the final buzzer. Topeka bounced back the following night with an impressive 5–2 victory, powered by a hat trick from Cam Clark. In the final game of the season, Matt Lenz delivered a standout performance, recording a shutout to close out the campaign on a high note. Topeka enters its first Commissioner’s Cup playoff appearance with a roster that features valuable experience, as they prepare to take on the defending champions. The Scarecrows finished the season with a 30-20-6 record, placing fourth in the Empire Division with 90 points.

Players to Watch

Black Bears — Ivan Bondarenko (F)

Bondarenko tied the single-season point record on Saturday, which was just the cherry on top of his phenomenal season. Ivan has been fantastic since he stepped foot in Binghamton and seemingly can’t be stopped on the offensive end. He is dynamic on his skates and drives play up ice every time he touches the puck. Bondarenko is one of those players you must always be aware of on the ice because he can beat you in so many ways. His skating and high hockey IQ make him a very dangerous player as the Black Bears begin their pursuit of a third straight championship.

Black Bears — Mac Jansen (F)

Jansen is part of the three-headed monster on the Black Bears’ top line. The first-year Black Bear has proven his worth all season long and consistently produces in the biggest moments. He also brings a wealth of playoff experience to a team already overflowing with it. Mac’s ability to finish in front of the net, combined with his wicked wrist shot, keeps defenders on their toes. The team will need him at his best as they chase their third championship.

Scarecrows — Cam Clark (F)

Clark has been sensational since an early-season trade from the Black Bears brought him to Topeka. The third-year forward has recorded new career highs in both goals and points. He has always been crafty with the puck and is a smart player who knows how to maximize his skill set. He crashes the net when needed and positions himself well to make an impact every night. Clark is a great player and will get a chance for some revenge against his former team in the first round.

Schedule

April 15, 8:00 pm at The Stormont Vail Events Center (Topeka, KS.)

April 17, 7:00 pm at The Visions Veterans Memorial Arena (Binghamton, NY.)

*April 18, 7:00 pm at The Visions Veterans Memorial Arena (Binghamton, NY.)

*If necessary

You can watch both of the games on the Binghamton Black Bears YouTube channel.