No. 3-seed Maryland women’s lacrosse dominated in 16-6 loss to No. 2-seed North Carolina in NCAA Tournament semifinals

EVANSTON, Ill. — In a season littered with gritty, hard-fought battles, No. 3 Maryland women’s lacrosse’s season came to an end in uncharacteristic fashion.

Outplayed on both ends of the field, Maryland stumbled at the end of one of its most promising seasons in years. The Terps committed 15 turnovers and never found rhythm on offense while failing to stop key Tar Heels from attacking goalkeeper JJ Suriano. The Terps simply had no answer for the powerhouse that is No.

2-seed North Carolina, losing 16-6 to close out their 2026 campaign. The game began on a positive note for Maryland as two free positions — an area the Terps had struggled with all season — went their way. A Suriano save on an eight-meter attempt allowed the Terps to drive deep into North Carolina’s backfield, where Kristen Shanahan was sent to the turf on a dodge attempt.

Shanahan’s subsequent free position in the second minute of play struck true to give Maryland the opening lead. It was the first of two goals for Shanahan, who later struck the post twice in search of a hat trick. Then, the Tar Heels lit up, powered by a blistering quick strike from sophomore Chloe Humphrey.