SUNY Cortland (14-5) vs. Western New England (13-6)

A good matchup lands on the DTL Wednesday Watch List NCAA opening round as SUNY Cortland and Western New England face off in what feels like one of those games that could become one of the better battles of the day. Both teams enter with strong resumes, experienced playmakers, and offenses capable of putting up goals in bunches.

Cortland comes in at 14-5 and has been rolling offensively behind one of the most productive offenses in DeeThreeLax. The Red Dragons have consistently pushed tempo and found ways to overwhelm teams with scoring depth and transition play.

Leading the way is the dynamic trio of Sean Kavanagh (96 pts), Nick Stoecker (90 pts), and Stefan Swedlund (65 pts)a group that can completely take over a game when they get rolling. Defensively, James Sullivan (21 CTs, 38 GBs, 3 pts) and Dino Bowen (17 CTs, 37 GBs) anchor the close defense, while AJ Surian (17 CTs, 33 GBs, 6 pts) brings physicality and versatility from the midfield. At the faceoff X, Nicky Miltenberger (191 FO wins, 73%) gives Cortland a major possession advantage.

Western New England enters at 13-6 after putting together another strong season and proving they can compete with quality opponents throughout the year. The Golden Bears bring a balanced offense and one of the more disruptive defensive units around.

The offense runs through Jacob Roy (77 pts), with Logan Jenkins (45 pts) and Thomas Labbe (38 pts) providing additional firepower. Defensively, David Noel (47 CTs, 73 GBs, 5 pts) has been outstanding all season and is one of the top playmakers on that side of the field. He’s joined by Jack Gara (23 CTs, 43 GBs, 2 pts) and Chance Starrett (12 CTs, 28 GBs) in a group that thrives on creating chaos and winning ground balls.

The last matchup between these two programs dates all the way back to March 10, 2017, where Cortland took home a 16-8 win over Western New England.

DeeThreeLax Take

Cortland probably comes in with the edge thanks to its offensive firepower and faceoff advantage, but Western New England absolutely has the defensive pieces to make things uncomfortable. If WNE can slow the pace and force Cortland into longer possessions, this game could become a battle deep into the fourth quarter. Feels like a fun one to keep an eye on Wednesday afternoon in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament.  

Ohio Wesleyan (11-6) vs. Grove City (13-7)

Another great matchup finds its way onto the DTL Wednesday Watch List as Ohio Wesleyan and Grove City meet once again after delivering an instant classic earlier this season. With both teams playing some of their best lacrosse of the year, expect another battle that could go down to the final possession.

Ohio Wesleyan enters at 11-6 after navigating the chaos of the NCAC and proving throughout the season that they can compete with anyone on any given day. The Battling Bishops have leaned heavily on their offensive firepower and ability to score in transition.

The offense is led by the dangerous duo of Henry Ross (72 pts) and Wade Beckstrom (71 pts), with Will Siegenthaler (46 pts) adding another reliable scoring option. Defensively, Trey Weber (20 CTs, 32 GBs, 4 pts) and Luca DiCarlo (15 CTs, 32 GBs, 1 pt) have played important roles in helping OWU control possessions and create opportunities the other way.

Grove City comes in at 13-7 and continues to look like one of the tougher teams to figure out late in the season. The Wolverines have found success with a balanced offensive and strong two-way midfield play that can change the pace of a game quickly.

Offensively, Mac Faircloth (55 pts), Mason Lyons (54 pts), and Jake Parker (42 pts) headline the offense. Meanwhile, Sam Stevenson (22 CTs, 47 GBs, 17 pts) has been one of the most impactful two-way players on the roster, with Samuel Busby (18 CTs, 35 GBs, 1 pt) anchoring the defensive side.

These two met earlier this season on February 14, where Grove City pulled out a thrilling 14-13 win in one of the more entertaining non-conference games of the early season.

DeeThreeLax Take

This feels like another game that’s destined to be tight. Both teams are playing significantly better lacrosse now than they were back in February, and both have shown the ability to win close games. Ohio Wesleyan’s offensive firepower gives them a chance against anyone, but Grove City’s balance and physicality make them a difficult matchup. Expect another back-and-forth game that likely comes down to who executes better late in the fourth quarter to keep their season alive. 

Roanoke (13-5) vs. Marymount (9-7)

A matchup between an ODAC contender and the Atlantic East champion lands on the DTL Wednesday Watch List as Roanoke and Marymount meet for the first time in more than two decades. With postseason momentum starting to build, both teams have plenty to play for heading into this one.

Roanoke enters at 13-5 after another strong season in the always-competitive ODAC. The Maroons have leaned on a balanced offense and physical defensive play to put together one of their better campaigns in recent years.

Leading the way offensively is Julian Kammerman (73 pts), with Patrick Cullen (51 pts) and Tyler Schmelzer (42 pts) giving Roanoke multiple scoring threats across the field. Defensively, Ike Dutton (38 CTs, 58 GBs, 6 pts) continues to be a force all over the field, while Weston Hammond (17 CTs, 32 GBs, 7 pts) adds another athletic two-way presence.

Marymount comes in at 9-7 after capturing momentum late in the season and showing resilience throughout Atlantic East play. The Saints have built their identity around toughness, possession control, and a balanced offensive approach.

The offense is led by Santino Rossitto (47 pts), James Elko (46 pts), and Ian Fructuoso (43 pts) a trio capable of keeping pace offensively. Defensively, Spencer Carfang (21 CTs, 35 GBs) and Kanye Otto (15 CTs, 26 GBs, 2 pts)anchor the unit, while Winston Horshaw II (201 FO wins, 75%) could become one of the biggest factors in the game if Marymount is able to consistently win possession at the faceoff X.

Believe it or not, this will be the first meeting between these two programs in over 24 years. The last matchup came on March 2, 2002, when Roanoke earned a 17-10 victory.

DeeThreeLax Take

Roanoke probably enters as the favorite based on resume and overall body of work, but Marymount has some intriguing pieces that could make this game tighter than expected. If the Saints can control tempo early through faceoffs and limit Roanoke’s transition opportunities, they absolutely have a path to keeping this one competitive. A game that could become a lot more interesting as it goes on.

Rivier (18-0) vs. Rhodes (11-6)

Two conference champions collide Wednesday afternoon as undefeated Rivier takes on Rhodes in a matchup that feels like one of the more intriguing games on the slate. With both teams coming off championship runs in their respective conferences, this one has the potential to turn into a very entertaining battle.

Rivier enters at a perfect 18-0 after steamrolling through the GNAC and proving itself as one of the toughest teams to beat in DeeThreeLac this season. The Raiders have done it with balance, discipline, and a defense that consistently creates extra possessions.

Offensively, Conor Walsh (62 pts), Aiden Conley (59 pts), and Mason Schultz (54 pts) headline a dangerous offense capable of scoring in bunches. Defensively, Rivier is anchored by Colin Foley (33 CTs, 58 GBs, 13 pts) and Logan Layton (32 CTs, 45 GBs, 1 pt), while Luke Armano (21 CTs, 21 GBs) adds depth to a physical unit that has frustrated opponents all year long.

Rhodes comes in at 11-6 after capturing the SAA title and continues to look like a team capable of making noise. The Lynx bring plenty of offensive firepower and have shown throughout the season they can hang with strong competition.

Leading the way offensively is Gavin Nagle (80 pts), alongside Griffin Galloway (58 pts) and Andrew Murphy (57 pts) a trio that can push tempo and create offense quickly. Defensively, Aidan Malnati (18 CTs, 66 GBs, 2 pts) and Nicholas Wheeldon (17 CTs, 20 GBs, 1 pt) will play a big role in trying to slow down Rivier’s balanced offense. 

This will actually be the first meeting in program history between Rivier and Rhodes, adding another layer of intrigue to an already exciting matchup.

DeeThreeLax Take

Anything could happen in this matchup between Rivier and Rhodes. Rivier has been dominant all season and comes in undefeated for a reason, but Rhodes absolutely has the offensive pieces to make this uncomfortable. Both teams are riding momentum after conference title runs, and whichever group settles in first could take control early. Expect a fast-paced, physical matchup that likely comes down to execution in the fourth quarter.

Scranton (13-6) vs. New York Maritime (10-8)

Landmark champion Scranton taking on a red-hot New York Maritime squad that has already proven it can shock people when the stakes are high which is exactly what they did to take home the Skyline title this year. 

Scranton enters at 13-6 after once again battling through the Landmark Conference and capturing another conference title. The Royals have relied on balanced scoring, physical defense, and experience in big moments to put themselves back into postseason play.

Offensively, Quinn Carson (66 pts) and Kyle Holmes (61 pts) lead the way, with Jason Kozak (42 pts) continuing to be a major contributor. Defensively, Colin Giarrusso (21 CTs, 36 GBs, 6 pts) and Thomas Popolizio (20 CTs, 17 GBs, 5 pts) bring toughness and versatility that help Scranton control momentum in transition.

New York Maritime comes in at 10-8 after making a surprising run through the Skyline Conference Tournament, knocking off both Farmingdale and Merchant Marine when it mattered most. The Privateers are playing with confidence right now and have one of the more explosive offensive groups around.

The offense is powered by Nick Uzakewicz (95 pts), Ryan Hannaford (84 pts), and Thomas McCarvil (56 pts)  a trio capable of turning this game into a shootout quickly. Defensively, Brody Smith (43 CTs, 60 GBs, 2 pts) has been outstanding all season, while Scott Bowen (14 CTs, 10 GBs) and Collin Brush (13 CTs, 9 GBs) help anchor the unit.

These two programs haven’t faced off in nearly 28 years, with the last matchup coming back in 1998, where Scranton picked up the win. Needless to say, a lot has changed for both programs since then.

DeeThreeLax Take

Scranton probably comes in as the favorite based on resume and experience, but New York Maritime feels like one of those teams nobody wants to play right now. The Privateers already showed they can rise to the occasion in the Skyline Tournament, and when a team gets hot this late in the year, anything can happen. If Maritime can get rolling offensively early, this could become a much tighter game than many expect Wednesday afternoon.

Concordia (19-1) vs. Ohio Northern (13-6)

Another big match up lands on the DTL Wednesday Watch List as Concordia and Ohio Northern square off for the first time in program history. Two teams coming off strong seasons and conference championship runs now get the chance to test themselves against unfamiliar competition.

Concordia enters at 19-1 after an outstanding season that saw the Falcons dominate much of the NACC. Concordia has quietly built one of the more complete teams in DeeThreeLax, blending offensive firepower with physical defensive play.

The Falcons are led offensively by the trio of Bryce Petersen (78 pts), Jackson Knutson (74 pts), and Brayden Wilson (64 pts)  a group capable of taking over games when they find rhythm early. Defensively, Ben Birch (32 CTs, 78 GBs, 12 pts) has been an absolute force all season, while Sean McMullen (22 CTs, 38 GBs) adds another physical presence to the unit.

Ohio Northern comes in at 13-6 after another strong year in the OAC and a deep postseason push. The Polar Bears have shown throughout the season they can win tight games and compete against quality opponents.

Offensively, Jack Chaney (50 pts) leads the way, with Cooper Mulligan (31 pts), Aidan Sexton (28 pts), and Nathan Flynn (28 pts) providing depth across the offense. On the defensive side, Ryan Frech (21 CTs, 43 GBs, 5 pts) and Alex Bergeron (17 CTs, 36 GBs, 2 pts) anchor a gritty group that thrives on creating turnovers and winning ground balls.

This will be the first meeting ever between Concordia and Ohio Northern, making this a fresh matchup between two programs that don’t often cross paths.

DeeThreeLax Take

I like Ohio Northern slightly in this matchup based on schedule strength and experience in close games, but Concordia absolutely deserves attention at 19-1. The Falcons have proven all season they can score with anyone, and if they get hot offensively, they’re dangerous. This feels like one of those games where momentum swings could decide everything late in the fourth quarter.

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Mass Maritime (15-2) vs. Husson (12-4)

A good regional matchup makes its way onto the DTL Wednesday Watch List as LEC champion Mass Maritime takes on NAC champion Husson. Both teams are coming in with momentum, conference titles, and offenses capable of making this a fun one to watch.

Mass Maritime enters at 15-2 and has been one of the hotter teams in DeeThreeLax down the stretch. The Buccaneers are riding an 11-game winning streak and haven’t lost since March, using a balanced offense and physical defensive play to dominate the LEC on their way to a conference title.

The offense is led by Daniel Kane (75 pts), James Sullivan (64 pts), and Quinn Mucha (54 pts) a trio that has consistently produced throughout the season. Defensively, Chris Sullivan (44 CTs, 41 GBs, 4 pts) has been a game-changer, while Seamus Buckley (18 CTs, 30 GBs, 3 pts) provides additional toughness and stability.

Husson comes in at 12-4 after responding in a big way late in the year to capture the NAC title. The Eagles have leaned on a high-powered offense and strong two-way play to put together one of the better seasons in program history.

Leading the way is Kiernan Field (91 pts), who has been one of the top offensive players in DeeThreeLax. He’s joined by Dominic Hollenkamp (61 pts) and Taylor Schwalje (46 pts) in an offense capable of putting up goals quickly. Defensively, Owen Giorgio (31 CTs, 107 GBs, 17 pts) has been outstanding all season and impacts the game all over the field, while Matt Richardson (12 CTs, 22 GBs) adds support to the defensive unit.

The last meeting between these two programs dates back to March 12, 2012, where Husson earned a 14-5 victory.

DeeThreeLax Take

Mass Maritime probably enters as the favorite based on recent form and the way they’ve been rolling through the second half of the season, but Husson absolutely has the offensive firepower to make this competitive. The Eagles already showed resilience after losing to Maine Maritime late in the regular season before bouncing back to win the NAC title. If Husson can keep pace offensively early and avoid letting Mass Maritime settle into rhythm, this could turn into one of the more entertaining games on Wednesday.

Pfeiffer (14-2) vs. Transylvania (12-4)

Another excellent matchup lands on the DTL Wednesday Watch List as USA South champion Pfeiffer takes on HCLC champion Transylvania where both teams are playing excellent lacrosse right now. 

Pfeiffer enters at 14-2 and absolutely rolling. The Falcons are riding a 12-game winning streak and haven’t lost since March 1, once again proving themselves as one of the top programs in the USA South. Their offense has been explosive throughout the year and can overwhelm opponents when they get out in transition.

Leading the charge is one of the most dangerous trios in DeeThreeLax with Ethan Miles (92 pts), Dylan Sullivan (79 pts), and Tiger Hopkins (78 pts) all capable of taking over a game. Defensively, Michael Keane (33 CTs, 51 GBs, 7 pts) and Luc Danis (20 CTs, 27 GBs, 5 pts) anchor a physical unit that creates plenty of extra possessions. At the faceoff X, Lee Caldwell (128 FO wins, 70%) gives Pfeiffer another major advantage.

Transylvania comes in at 12-4 after capturing the HCLC title and continues to look like one of the more balanced teams in the region. The Pioneers have consistently found ways to win close games and bring an offense capable of matching pace with high-scoring opponents.

The offense is led by Andrew Welch (66 pts), Huck Campbell (60 pts), and Charlie Horner (54 pts) a trio that has fueled the offense all season long. Defensively, Caleb Kern (20 CTs, 27 GBs, 1 pt) and Dom Tsourkas (14 CTs, 18 GBs) lead the way, while Braden Antle (154 FO wins, 69%) has been excellent at the faceoff X and could play a major role in keeping possessions even.

This will be the first meeting ever between Pfeiffer and Transylvania, making this an exciting new postseason-style matchup between two conference champions.

DeeThreeLax Take

Pfeiffer probably enters as the favorite based on current form and offensive depth, but this feels like a game that could become very competitive. Both teams have strong faceoff units, plenty of scoring options, and defenses capable of creating momentum-changing plays. If Transylvania can slow the pace and avoid getting caught in transition, this could easily turn into a four-quarter battle. Should make for a really fun matchup Wednesday afternoon.