UNC Women’s Sports Shine with 3 ESPY Nominations and Capital One Cup Victory

Chloe Humphrey: A Rising Star in Women’s Lacrosse

Chloe Humphrey has made a significant impact in women’s lacrosse after overcoming an injury that sidelined her for the 2024 season. In her redshirt first-year season with the University of North Carolina (UNC) Tar Heels, she quickly garnered attention by winning the prestigious 2025 Tewaaraton Award, an accolade presented annually to the top player in women’s college lacrosse.

Humphrey has etched her name in the record books, scoring an unprecedented 90 goals in a single season, surpassing the previous UNC record of 82 goals set by standout Jamie Ortega. Notably, during the NCAA tournament semifinals against Florida, she showcased her extraordinary talent by netting a career-high seven goals in a single game, leading the Tar Heels to a commanding 20-4 victory.

Alongside Humphrey, other contenders for this year’s award were Duke basketball player Cooper Flagg, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, and rugby athlete Ilona Maher.

UNC Women’s Lacrosse: Undefeated Champions

The UNC women’s lacrosse team secured its place in history by finishing the season unbeaten, ending with a victorious record of 12-8 in the national championship against Northwestern on May 25. Throughout the NCAA tournament, the Tar Heels outscored their opponents by an impressive margin, averaging over nine goals per game.

This championship marked the fourth title in the history of UNC women’s lacrosse and the second undefeated season within a four-year span. Remarkably, out of the other eight teams nominated for the Best Team award, UNC was the sole squad to maintain an undefeated record.

Recognition at the ESPYS

The accomplishments of UNC’s women’s athletics, highlighted by the national championships in both women’s soccer and lacrosse, earned the university the 2024-25 Capital One Cup. This award is conferred to the women’s athletic program that accumulates the most points based on national championship victories and final poll standings. As part of this recognition, UNC will receive $250,000, which is designated for athletic scholarships.

In addition to the triumphant seasons in lacrosse and soccer, the field hockey team also celebrated a successful year, securing its 27th Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) championship. Of the 15 women’s sports offered at UNC, 14 teams qualified for NCAA postseason play.

UNC women’s lacrosse head coach Jenny Levy noted the stellar performances across women’s sports, stating, “I’ve watched our female sports do so well — soccer, field hockey, tennis, us. It’s been a powerhouse and the women here are extraordinary.”

The Tar Heels will be honored for their impressive achievements during the ESPYS ceremony on Wednesday night.

@dthsports