10 of the best DeeThreeLax National Championships over the last 25 years  

Over the past 25 years, the DeeThreeLax Men’s Lacrosse Championship has delivered some of the most thrilling, emotional, and unforgettable moments in the sport. From overtime classics to underdog triumphs, each title game has added a unique chapter to DeeThreeLax history. Whether it was a perennial powerhouse cementing a dynasty or a first-time finalist shocking the lacrosse world, these championship games have shaped programs, legacies, and the sport itself. As we look back at the ten best DeeThreeLax national title games since 2000, we celebrate the heart, grit, and drama that make this division so special. 

1 – 2021: RIT 15, Salisbury 14 (OT) 

• Why: One of the greatest title games ever played. A back-and-forth thriller that ended in overtime. RIT won its first national championship, finally breaking through after years of close calls. This game had elite talent, drama, and legacy impact. 

• Legacy: Cemented Jake Coon as an elite coach. Instant classic. 

2 – 2006: SUNY Cortland 13, Salisbury 12 (OT) 

• Why: Stunning upset that ended Salisbury’s 69-game winning streak and dynasty run. First title in over 25 years for Cortland. 

• Legacy: One of the most memorable championship upsets in D3 history. 

3 – 2003: Salisbury 14, Middlebury 13 (OT) 

• Why: A dramatic overtime win over Middlebury in a heavyweight battle. Salisbury came from behind to win the program’s 3rd title. 

• Legacy: A classic that marked the beginning of Salisbury’s modern dominance. 

4 – 2016: Salisbury 14, Tufts 13 

• Why: Tight, high-level game between two dynasties. Salisbury edged Tufts in a one-goal thriller with contrasting styles. 

• Legacy: Cemented Salisbury’s modern era resurgence. 

5 – 2022: RIT 12, Union 10 

• Why: RIT wins back-to-back titles, but Union gave them everything. This game had momentum swings and a late rally by Union that came up just short. 

• Legacy: Showed RIT’s staying power and Union’s rise to the national scene. 

6 – 2013: Stevenson 16, RIT 14 

• Why: Stevenson finally broke through after years of being close. High-scoring, chaotic, and passionate. A landmark win for Paul Cantabene. 

• Legacy: Huge for Mid-Atlantic lacrosse. Wild energy and playing style. 

7 – 2019: Cabrini 16, Amherst 12 

• Why: Cabrini’s first national title on their home turf (Philly), and a Cinderella run that defied expectations. 

• Legacy: A win for the “little guy” in D3. Great moment for the sport’s depth. 

8 – 2018: Wesleyan 8, Salisbury 6 

• Why: Defensive battle and massive program milestone. Wesleyan’s first title after years of being close. 

• Legacy: John Raba’s crowning achievement. Beat the D3 blue blood (Salisbury). 

9 – 2005: Salisbury 11, Middlebury 10 

• Why: Another epic chapter in the Salisbury-Middlebury rivalry. Close finish and perfect season for Salisbury. 

• Legacy: Part of Salisbury’s 4-title streak from 2003–2008. 

10 – 2012: Salisbury 14, SUNY Cortland 10 

• Why: Salisbury caps an undefeated season and finishes a dominant postseason run. 

• Legacy: Perfect season, senior class legacy cemented. 

Honorable Mentions: 

• 2024: Tufts 18, RIT 14 – A shootout with big offensive stars; compelling, but not as dramatic as others. 

• 2002: Middlebury 14, Gettysburg 9 – A clean, dominant win, but lacked late-game drama. 

• 2015: Tufts 19, Lynchburg 11 – Tufts’ machine in full form, but not a close game. 

As we gear up for the 2025 NCAA DeeThreeLax National Championship, the stage is set for another epic showdown that could write the next iconic chapter in DeeThreeLax history. With new contenders emerging and familiar powerhouses reloading, the excitement around this year’s tournament has been at an all-time high. If the past is any indication, the 2025 title game has every chance to join this list of all-time greats. Buckle up—Championship Weekend is almost here.