NCDC Expands to Billings, Montana Ahead of the 2026–27 Season

USPHL • NCDC • NCDC Expands to Billings, Montana Ahead of the 2026–27 Season

Billings, MT NCDC

The National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC) is proud to announce the establishment of a new franchise in Billings, Montana, set to begin play in the 2026-27 season. The team will operate out of the brand-new Signal Peak Energy Arena, a state-of-the-art facility whose spectator seating, enhanced amenities, and additional community ice sheet made Billings an ideal destination for NCDC expansion.

League officials and ownership cited both the arena and the Billings market as key factors in the decision to bring Tier II junior hockey to the region. “The players in the NCDC have opportunities to advance to NCAA Division I programs,” Team President Kevin Greene said. “Billings is an ideal setting for that development path.”

The ownership group, which also operates the Idaho Falls Spud Kings, enters Billings with a proven model for building successful junior organizations. Idaho Falls captured an NCDC National Championship just three years after joining the league, and that experience will guide their approach to assembling the Billings roster, building the brand, and engaging the local community.

Greene emphasized the importance of strong fan support and game-day experience in establishing a sustainable franchise. Community involvement will be central as the franchise takes shape. “We want the people who have lived here for decades, those who know the history and heartbeat of this community, to help us select our team name,” Greene said.

The next major milestone for the new Billings franchise will be naming a head coach by May 1, followed by the start of player recruitment.

The team will compete in the NCDC’s Mountain Division, joining:

  • Idaho Falls Spud Kings

  • Ogden Mustangs

  • Utah Outliers

  • Rock Springs Miners

  • Casper Warbirds

  • Pueblo Bulls

  • Grand Junction River Hawks

You can watch the team’s press conference announcement in full by clicking here. 

Fans can help shape the identity of Billings’ newest team by participating in the official “Name the Team” contest, now open at: https://billingsjuniorhockey.com/name-the-team-contest