Princeton wins first NCAA men's lacrosse title since 2001

May 26, 2026 - 04:06

Chad Palumbo powered the Princeton Tigers to a long-awaited victory, scoring all four of his goals in the first half as the team defeated Notre Dame 16-9 on Monday. The win marks Princeton's first NCAA men's lacrosse championship since 2001, ending a 22-year drought for the storied program.

Colin Burns also contributed a hat trick to the offensive explosion, helping Princeton build an insurmountable lead early. The Tigers came out firing, putting constant pressure on the Notre Dame defense and never letting the Fighting Irish find their rhythm. Palumbo's four first-half goals set the tone, and the team carried that momentum into the second half to seal the decisive win.

For Princeton, the championship represents a return to the top of college lacrosse. The program had been a powerhouse in the 1990s and early 2000s, winning six titles between 1992 and 2001. The long wait for number seven was finally over as the Tigers celebrated on the field, ending Notre Dame's own hopes for a title. The Fighting Irish fought hard but could not overcome Princeton's relentless attack and disciplined defense.