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NCAA Women's Lacrosse: Who Will Crown Themselves Champions?
4 May
Summary
- The tournament features 29 teams with 15 automatic and 14 at-large bids.
- ESPN platforms will broadcast all tournament games, including the championship.
- North Carolina, Northwestern, and Maryland are top contenders.

The 2026 NCAA women's lacrosse tournament bracket has been revealed, featuring 29 competing teams. Fifteen teams earned automatic bids, while fourteen secured at-large selections, highlighting a competitive field.
Traditional powerhouses North Carolina, Northwestern, and Maryland are once again leading the charge as top seeds. These programs, along with Boston College, have dominated the championship landscape, capturing most titles since 2005. Last year's finalists, North Carolina and Northwestern, are anticipated to be strong contenders again.
Fans can follow all the action across multiple ESPN platforms. The quarterfinals and semifinals are scheduled for ESPNU, with the championship game broadcast live on ESPN. Streaming options are available via fubo and the ESPN app, ensuring widespread access to the tournament.
The tournament kicks off with first-round games on Friday, May 8, followed by second-round matches on Sunday, May 10. The quarterfinal matchups will take place on Thursday, May 14, with the semifinals scheduled for Friday, May 22. The championship game, determining the 2026 NCAA women's lacrosse champion, will be played on Sunday, May 24.