Foxborough, Massachusetts- The 2025 NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship concluded in dramatic fashion as the Cornell Big Red defeated Maryland 13–10 at Gillette Stadium, capturing their fourth national title and first since 1977. The championship victory not only ended a 48-year drought for the Ivy League powerhouse but also underscored the program’s resurgence under head coach Connor Buczek.
Cornell entered the tournament as the top seed and lived up to the billing throughout the postseason. Their title run included dominant performances against UAlbany, Richmond, and a gritty semifinal victory over Penn State. The final matchup against the second-seeded Maryland Terrapins was a clash of collegiate lacrosse titans, marking Maryland’s 18th appearance in a national championship game.
The final, held on May 26 before a crowd of 32,512 fans, showcased elite lacrosse with a blend of strategic play, athleticism, and standout individual performances. Cornell senior attacker CJ Kirst delivered one of the most memorable performances in NCAA Championship history, scoring six goals and adding an assist. With that effort, Kirst tied the NCAA single-season record with 82 goals and became the all-time leading scorer with 247 career goals. His contributions earned him the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player honors.
Joining Kirst in the offensive charge was Ryan Goldstein, who netted four goals, while Andrew Dalton and Ryan Waldman each added a tally. Cornell’s offense was aggressive, balanced, and precise, consistently pressuring Maryland’s defense and capitalizing on opportunities.
Maryland, known for their methodical and disciplined approach, battled back from multiple deficits. Zach Whittier, Eric Spanos, and Braden Erksa each scored twice, and goalie Logan McNaney recorded 11 saves to keep the Terrapins within striking distance. Maryland narrowed the score to 10–9 in the fourth quarter, but Cornell’s resilience and offensive depth sealed the victory with key goals and critical defensive stops in the closing minutes.
Defensively, Cornell was anchored by goalie Wyatt Knust, who made 12 saves and played a pivotal role in denying Maryland’s late offensive pushes. The Big Red defense was composed and physical, limiting Maryland’s shooting angles and recovering ground balls efficiently.
This championship holds special significance for head coach Connor Buczek, a former Cornell standout who returned to lead his alma mater to national glory. Under Buczek’s leadership, Cornell has emphasized a culture of accountability, relentless effort, and tactical excellence—qualities that were on full display throughout the 2025 campaign.
The victory also signifies a broader shift in college lacrosse. While traditional powerhouses like Maryland, Virginia, and Syracuse have long dominated the sport, Cornell’s triumph reflects the growing parity and competitiveness across Division I lacrosse. Programs from the Ivy League, Big Ten, and ACC continue to raise the level of play, enhancing the sport’s national appeal and fan engagement.
The 2025 NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship was more than just a game—it was a celebration of collegiate athleticism, tradition, and the enduring spirit of competition. Fans were treated to high-stakes drama, breakout performances, and a deserving champion that overcame decades of near-misses to etch its name into history once again.
With this win, Cornell not only reclaims its spot atop the collegiate lacrosse hierarchy but also sets the tone for future seasons. As the curtain falls on the 2025 campaign, lacrosse fans nationwide can look ahead with anticipation, knowing the sport continues to grow in excitement, talent, and legacy.
For Cornell, the trophy is more than hardware—it’s a symbol of perseverance, passion, and a program restored to glory.
Watch Full Highlights:
