NCAA Women’s Lacrosse Championship: First Round Showdown
This week, #22 James Madison (13-6) faces off against #16 Notre Dame (12-5) in the first round of the NCAA Women’s Lacrosse Championship. The game is set for Friday, March 5, 2026, at 4 p.m. ET, taking place at Northwestern Medicine Field in Evanston, Illinois. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN+.
This marks JMU’s 11th consecutive NCAA Championship appearance and the 22nd in the program’s history. It’s a significant matchup, as the Dukes are looking to build on their recent success. JMU will be trying to flip the script against Notre Dame, which currently leads their all-time series 4-2. Remarkably, it’s the first time these two teams will clash in the NCAA Championship.
What’s at Stake?
- The winner will advance to face top-seeded Northwestern in the second round on Sunday, May 10.
- A victory for JMU would make it four first-round wins in five appearances.
Current Form and Key Players
JMU is riding high with a seven-game win streak, including a decisive 17-7 victory over South Florida in the American tournament final. Notre Dame earned an at-large bid after a tough loss in the ACC quarterfinals, marking their 18th NCAA Championship appearance.
On the Dukes’ side, Jordan Peterson stands out with 43 goals and leads the team in shots on goal. Payton Root is a key facilitator, recording a remarkable 54 assists and 83 points overall. Harlowe Healey has made a name for herself in the draw circle, while Olivia Rongo excels defensively, having set a JMU record with 56 caused turnovers this season.
Notre Dame counters with standout Madison Rassas, who boasts an impressive 51 goals and 62 points. Grace Maroney contributes significantly as well, adding 31 goals. The Irish’s defensive strength is evident, with five players tallying over 20 caused turnovers and goalie Ceci Patterson making 87 saves, showcasing her skills with a .426 save percentage.
This matchup not only highlights individual talents but also signifies a broader trend in women’s lacrosse. According to recent statistics from the NCAA, women’s lacrosse participation has surged, with over 660 colleges now offering collegiate programs. This growth enriches the competition level, making every game more thrilling.
