Exciting News: Duke University’s McAdorey and Gray Shine in the 2025 PLL College Draft!

Duke men’s lacrosse players Andrew McAdorey and Jack Gray have made waves in the 2025 Premier Lacrosse League College Draft. McAdorey was picked second overall by the California Redwoods, while Gray went 27th to the Denver Outlaws. Both players are returning to familiar faces; McAdorey will join former teammate Nakeie Montgomery, and Gray will team up with Brennan O’Neill.

McAdorey has had an impressive season, scoring 21 goals and 21 assists for a total of 42 points. Recently named a First Team All-American, he played a crucial role in helping Duke reach the ACC Championship by providing the assist for a game-winning overtime goal against Virginia. In the ACC Championship, he tallied four goals and two assists over two games, narrowly losing to Syracuse.

Gray, a reliable defensive midfielder, has been a key part of Duke’s defense, playing in 60 games throughout his career. Known for his strong presence on the field, he has recorded 11 turnovers and picked up 20 ground balls this season, showing improvement over last year’s performance. His efforts have helped Duke maintain a stellar defensive record.

As of now, the Blue Devils stand at 12-5 and are the No. 7 seed in the upcoming NCAA Championship. They will host Georgetown on May 10, with the match set to air on ESPNU. Fans are excited about the team’s potential as they aim for a deeper run in the tournament.

New Insights

Statistics on Lacrosse Popularity: Lacrosse has been growing rapidly in the U.S. According to a survey by the National Federation of State High School Associations, the number of high school lacrosse participants increased by over 20% from 2011 to 2021, indicating the sport’s rising popularity.

Expert Opinions: Lacrosse analyst and former player Jamie Munro emphasizes the skill and teamwork needed for success in the sport: "Lacrosse is not just about speed and strength; it’s about strategic thinking and collaboration on the field. Players like McAdorey exemplify this approach."

Cultural Context: Historically, lacrosse is one of North America’s oldest sports, originally played by Native American tribes. Its evolution into a collegiate and professional sport showcases its lasting legacy and growth.

As fans gear up for the NCAA Championship, the excitement around Duke’s lacrosse team continues to build, reflecting the sport’s increasing prominence in American athletics.

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