The 2025 NCAA Men’s Lacrosse season has been nothing short of electric, featuring thrilling upsets, breakout stars, and intense rivalries. As the regular season enters its final stretch and conference tournaments loom, the spotlight shifts toward the ultimate prize—a trip to the NCAA Championship on Memorial Day Weekend. From storied programs to emerging challengers, teams across the country are jockeying for position in one of the most exciting and physically demanding collegiate sports.
How the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Season Works
The NCAA Division I men’s lacrosse season runs from February through May, culminating in the NCAA Tournament. Here’s how it unfolds:
- Regular Season (Feb–April): Teams play a combination of non-conference and conference games, building résumés for postseason consideration.
- Conference Tournaments (Early May): Most major conferences—including the ACC, Big Ten, Ivy League, and Big East—hold tournaments to determine automatic bids to the NCAA Tournament.
- NCAA Tournament:
- 16 teams are selected (9 automatic qualifiers + 7 at-large bids).
- The tournament is single elimination and ends with the Final Four and Championship during Memorial Day Weekend, traditionally held in a major stadium venue.
2025 Season Highlights
The 2025 season has delivered plenty of headline-grabbing moments and standout individual performances. Here are a few highlights:
- Notre Dame’s Reign Continues: The defending national champions have kept up their dominant form, led by the Kavanagh brothers, who are once again among the top point scorers in the nation. Their offense is fluid, and their defense has been stifling.
- Duke’s Dynamic Duo: The Blue Devils are lighting up the scoreboard, powered by a high-octane offense and a deep midfield. Their thrilling overtime win against Virginia in March was an early candidate for Game of the Year.
- Cornell and the Ivy League Charge: Cornell has emerged as the class of the Ivy League, with a balanced attack and relentless ride. They’ve racked up big wins over top-ranked opponents and are a strong contender for a top seed in the tournament.
- Maryland’s Comeback Season: After falling short of expectations in 2024, Maryland has rebounded in a big way. Their physical defense and disciplined style make them a postseason threat once again.
- Georgetown’s Statement Year: The Hoyas have made headlines with a top-5 ranking and multiple wins over ranked opponents. Their face-off dominance and goalie play give them an edge in close contests.
Teams to Watch Heading into the NCAA Tournament
- Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The defending champs have shown no signs of slowing down. With depth at every position, they’re eyeing a repeat and currently favored to grab the top overall seed.
- Duke Blue Devils
If you want goals, Duke delivers. Their offensive prowess and tournament experience make them one of the most dangerous teams in the field.
- Cornell Big Red
Cornell has the talent and grit to win close games. Their high lacrosse IQ and teamwork give them a serious shot at a championship run.
- Maryland Terrapins
Championship-tested and defensively sound, Maryland is built for the postseason. Don’t be surprised to see them back in the Final Four.
- Virginia Cavaliers
Led by a talented senior class and one of the best midfield lines in the country, Virginia has the experience and firepower to make another deep run.
The 2025 NCAA Championship Weekend
This year’s Final Four and Championship game will take place May 24-26, 2025 in Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
Why NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Captivates
Lacrosse is fast, physical, and packed with momentum swings that make every possession count. The NCAA season is where future pros emerge, lifelong rivalries are reignited, and fans are treated to some of the most dramatic finishes in college sports.
As we head toward the postseason, the chase for the national title is wide open, and the intensity is only building. Whether you’re new to the sport or a die-hard fan, NCAA men’s lacrosse is at its absolute best in May—and this year’s championship promises to be unforgettable.
Learn more at: https://www.ncaa.com/sports/lacrosse-men/d1
The Sport Lady has been a lifelong sports enthusiast. She believes that sports have the power to unite people, create common bonds, and foster shared experiences. As a wife and mother of sports lovers, she is passionate about her favorite teams and cherishes every opportunity to watch them play. For her, every day is game day!