The 2025 NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Championship kicked off with a thrilling first round on May 10–11, featuring dominant performances, surprising upsets, and standout individual efforts. Here's an in-depth recap of the weekend's action, key player highlights, and predictions for the upcoming quarterfinal matchups.
Cornell 15, UAlbany 6
Top-seeded Cornell showcased their offensive prowess with a commanding win over UAlbany. Senior attackman CJ Kirst led the charge, netting six goals and becoming the NCAA Division I men's lacrosse all-time leading goal scorer with 226 goals over his 61-game career . The Big Red's defense stifled UAlbany's attempts, limiting them to just six goals.
Maryland 13, Air Force 5
Maryland's defense was impenetrable, holding Air Force to only five goals. The Terrapins' offense steadily built a lead, with contributions from multiple players, ensuring a comfortable victory. Maryland's experience and depth were evident throughout the game.
Notre Dame 15, Ohio State 6
Defending champion Notre Dame dismantled Ohio State with a balanced attack and strong defensive performance. Chris Kavanagh stepped up as the offensive leader, filling the void left by his brother Pat Kavanagh, and leading the Fighting Irish to a decisive win.
Syracuse 13, Harvard 12 (OT)
In a thrilling overtime contest, Syracuse edged Harvard with a late surge. Attackman Joey Spallina, a Tewaaraton Award contender, showcased his clutch play, leading the Orange to victory . The game highlighted Syracuse's resilience and determination.
Richmond 13, North Carolina 10
Richmond secured its first-ever NCAA Tournament win by upsetting North Carolina. Midfielders Littlejohn and Vigue led the Spiders, who pulled away in the second half to make history. Richmond's aggressive play and key contributions from their midfielders were instrumental in the victory.
Georgetown 16, Duke 12
In a significant upset, Georgetown defeated Duke on the road. The Hoyas' aggressive play and key contributions from Carroll, Prince, and Bayman propelled them to victory. Georgetown's dynamic offense overwhelmed Duke's defense, showcasing their potential for a deep tournament run.
Princeton 22, Towson 12
Princeton dominated Towson with a high-powered offense, showcasing their depth and readiness for a deep tournament run. The Tigers' balanced attack and strong midfield play were too much for Towson to handle.
Penn State 13, Colgate 11
Penn State overcame a determined Colgate team, controlling the game's pace and securing their spot in the quarterfinals. The Nittany Lions' experience and strategic play were key factors in their victory.
Standout Performers
CJ Kirst (Cornell) – The Tewaaraton Award favorite delivered six goals, leading Cornell's dominant performance and becoming the NCAA Division I men's lacrosse all-time leading goal scorer .
Chris Kavanagh (Notre Dame) – Stepping into the spotlight, Kavanagh led the Fighting Irish's offense with precision and poise, filling the void left by his brother and former Tewaaraton winner, Pat Kavanagh .
Joey Spallina (Syracuse) – In a high-pressure overtime game, Spallina's leadership and scoring ability were pivotal in Syracuse's victory over Harvard, reinforcing his status as a Tewaaraton contender .
Littlejohn & Vigue (Richmond) – Their midfield prowess was instrumental in Richmond's historic win over North Carolina, showcasing the depth and talent of the Spiders' roster.
Carroll, Prince, & Bayman (Georgetown) – This dynamic trio propelled the Hoyas past Duke with aggressive and effective play, highlighting Georgetown's offensive capabilities.
Quarterfinal Matchups & Predictions (May 17–18)
Cornell vs. Richmond – Saturday, May 17 at 12:00 p.m. ET (ESPNU)
Cornell's high-powered offense, led by CJ Kirst, faces a confident Richmond squad coming off a historic win. While Richmond's momentum is notable, Cornell's experience and depth give them the edge in this matchup.
Prediction: Cornell advances with a decisive victory.
Princeton vs. Syracuse – Saturday, May 17 at 2:30 p.m. ET (ESPNU)
Princeton's balanced attack will test Syracuse's resilience. With Joey Spallina leading the Orange, expect a high-scoring affair. However, Princeton's consistency and depth may prove to be the difference.
Prediction: Princeton edges out Syracuse in a close contest.
Penn State vs. Notre Dame – Sunday, May 18 at 12:00 p.m. ET (ESPNU)
Notre Dame's championship pedigree and balanced play make them favorites, but Penn State's momentum could make this a closely contested game. The Fighting Irish's experience in high-stakes games may give them the upper hand.
Prediction: Notre Dame secures a hard-fought win.
Maryland vs. Georgetown – Sunday, May 18 at 2:30 p.m. ET (ESPNU)
Maryland's stifling defense will challenge Georgetown's dynamic offense. Expect a tactical battle, with Maryland's experience likely prevailing.
Prediction: Maryland advances with a solid performance.
This weekend's action set the stage for an exciting road to the championship, with top seeds asserting dominance and underdogs making their mark. Stay tuned for more thrilling lacrosse as the tournament progresses.