KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Western Michigan recruit Joona Väisänen was selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2024 NHL Draft earlier today. He was picked in the sixth round and 175th overall. 

Väisänen had a standout first season in North America, playing for the USHL's Dubuque Fighting Saints. He came to the U.S. from Espoo, Finland. 

He guided the team to the Clark Cup Final, while producing 40 points on nine goals and 31 assists in 53 games. His 40 points were fourth most among defenseman in the league. He also posted a +31 plus/minus, which was the fifth highest in the league and fourth highest among blue liners. 

For his efforts, he was named to the All-USHL First Team and was selected to Team Finland for the World Junior Championships. He played in seven games for the Fins and finished fourth in the international competition. 

Väisänen is the 74th player in program history to be selected in the NHL Draft and has been committed to the Broncos since 2022.