The Colorado Buffaloes women's lacrosse team has etched its name in the history books, capturing the program's first-ever Big 12 Tournament title with a gritty 8-6 victory over top-seeded Florida on Saturday. The win caps a remarkable season for the Buffs, who improved to 14-3 overall and proved they belong among the nation's elite.
The championship game was a testament to Colorado's resilience, as the team navigated a three-hour weather delay before taking the field for the evening showdown. Head coach Ann Elliott Whidden praised her squad's ability to stay focused and battle through adversity. "I'm just so proud of this team," Whidden said. "We started the season strong, but there was a stretch where we needed to create new memories. In the last third of the season, they kept pushing each other, and today, they showed what they're made of."
Colorado's defense has been the backbone of their success all season, ranking first in the conference in goals allowed. Against a Florida offense that averaged 16 goals per game, the Buffs were relentless, forcing 17 turnovers and limiting the Gators to just six goals. Defensive standouts Elena Oh and Jess Peluso led the charge, combining for several key stops that kept Florida off the scoreboard.
On the offensive end, Maddie Shoup delivered a performance for the ages, earning Tournament Most Outstanding Player honors. She scored four goals on eight shots, including the game-winner. "Maddie is a competitor through and through," Whidden said. "She carries the weight of this team on her shoulders and gives her best effort every single day."
Joining Shoup on the All-Tournament team were Lily Assini, Rowan Edson, Elena Oh, and Jess Peluso, highlighting the depth and balance that defined Colorado's championship run.
With the Big 12 title secured, the Buffs now await their seeding for the NCAA Tournament, marking the program's fourth appearance on the national stage. For fans of Colorado lacrosse, this historic victory is a sign that the Buffaloes are a force to be reckoned with—and the perfect moment to gear up in championship-inspired apparel to celebrate the journey.