Joey Spallina Named PLL Rookie of the Year
The former Syracuse standout earned top honors following a productive debut season with the Maryland Whipsnakes.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Basketball
The Premier Lacrosse League has named Joey Spallina as its Rookie of the Year after an impressive first season. Spallina finished fifth overall in the league, recording 36 total points for the Maryland Whipsnakes.
Why it matters
This award highlights Spallina's rapid transition to the professional level following his historic collegiate career. It reinforces his status as one of the sport's top young talents as he prepares for future professional opportunities.
Spallina finished his debut campaign with 16 goals, 2 two-point goals, and 18 assists. These contributions helped him secure a top-five league ranking after being selected as the third overall pick in the PLL Draft.
The players
Joey Spallina
He is a professional lacrosse player who previously set the all-time scoring record at Syracuse University.
Maryland Whipsnakes
This is a professional lacrosse team competing in the Premier Lacrosse League.
Premier Lacrosse League
This is the primary outdoor professional lacrosse organization in the United States.
The details
Spallina transitioned to the pros after setting the all-time scoring record at Syracuse University with 333 career points. His debut season with the Maryland Whipsnakes established him as a premier offensive threat in the professional ranks.
Timeline
September 19, 2026: Joey Spallina is named Rookie of the Year.
Season Trajectory
Spallina's Rookie of the Year win positions him as a high-profile prospect for the upcoming National Lacrosse League draft. His success establishes him as a central figure in the shifting competitive balance of professional lacrosse teams.
Spallina recorded 36 points in his first professional season, validating his status as a high-impact offensive contributor for fantasy rosters and league analysts. His transition to the NLL draft pool makes him the most anticipated player in the upcoming selection cycle.
The takeaway
Spallina's transition from the Syracuse record books to professional award winner demonstrates the successful path from collegiate star to elite pro status. Athletes following this trajectory must maintain high scoring production across multiple specialty metrics to compete for top honors.
What happens next
Joey Spallina is scheduled to participate in the National Lacrosse League draft on September 24, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in the sport by visiting our Basketball section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Syracuse.
