Cornell (16-1) vs. Penn State (12-4):: Cornell's only loss this season came against Penn State in an overtime thriller. Cornell boasts seven Inside Lacrosse All-Americans, led by CJ Kirst, while Penn State is powered by Matt Traynor, a top PLL draft pick.
*Why this matters:* This game is a rematch with high stakes. Penn State aims to prove their earlier win wasn't a fluke, while Cornell seeks revenge and a step closer to their first title since 1977.
Maryland (13-3) vs. Syracuse (13-5):: Maryland, with the most NCAA semifinal appearances, faces a Syracuse team returning to championship weekend for the first time since 2013. The game is expected to be a battle for pace control.
*Why this matters:* Maryland seeks to leverage their experience, while Syracuse hopes to recapture their past glory. The contrast in styles will be key to determining the victor.
Coaching Connection:: Penn State's coach, Jeff Tambroni, previously coached Cornell for a decade, adding an intriguing storyline to the Cornell vs. Penn State matchup.
*Why this matters:* Tambroni's history with Cornell adds emotional weight to the game, as he seeks his first national championship as a head coach.
Time/TV:: Noon ET, ESPN2
How They Got Here:: Cornell defeated Albany and Richmond; Penn State defeated Colgate and Notre Dame.
National Championships:: Cornell 3 (last 1977), Penn State 0.
Players to Watch:: Cornell – CJ Kirst (76 G, 32 A), Ryan Goldstein (38 G, 50 A); Penn State – Matt Traynor (42 G, 17 A), Hunter Aquino (16 G, 21 A).
Key Storyline:: Can Penn State repeat their regular-season victory against a strong Cornell team?
Time/TV:: 2:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2
How They Got Here:: Maryland defeated Air Force and Georgetown; Syracuse defeated Harvard and Princeton.
National Championships:: Maryland 4 (last 2022), Syracuse 11 (last 2009).
Players to Watch:: Maryland – Eric Spanos (30 G, 16 A), Braden Erksa (30 G, 15 A); Syracuse – Joey Spallina (35 G, 53 A), Owen Hiltz (45 G, 27 A).
Key Storyline:: Will Maryland's experience prevail, or can Syracuse regain their championship form?
Penn State's journey to the semifinals included a dramatic comeback victory against Notre Dame. Matt Traynor's performance has been crucial to their success. However, they face a tough challenge in Cornell, who have been ranked No. 1 nationally since March. The game will hinge on whether Penn State can contain Cornell's star player, CJ Kirst.
When and where are the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Semifinals?
The semifinals are on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
What are the matchups?
Cornell vs. Penn State and Maryland vs. Syracuse.
Where can I watch the games?
Both games will be broadcast on ESPN2.
The NCAA Men's Lacrosse Semifinals feature compelling matchups with historical significance and individual player talent.
Keep an eye on key players like CJ Kirst (Cornell) and Matt Traynor (Penn State).
Expect close, competitive games as teams battle for a spot in the national championship.
Do you think Penn State can beat Cornell again? Which team do you think will win the championship? Let us know!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
The University of Virginia (UVA) is undergoing significant changes in its men's lacrosse program. Lars Tiffany will not be returning as head...
The 2026 NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Championship is reaching its climax, with the semifinals set to take place on Saturday, May 23rd, at...
The No. 8 Penn State Nittany Lions and the No. 1 Princeton Tigers are set to clash in the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Quarterfinals. This highly ant...
After missing the NCAA tournament in 2025, the UVA lacrosse team, led by coach Lars Tiffany and captain Joey Terenzi, refocused on fundament...
⚠ Disclaimer: Yanuki provides article summaries and links for reference only. Yanuki does not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy of third-party sources. Please review original sources and verify information independently. Managed by the Yanuki Data Engine. Full Disclaimer