LOUISVILLE, Ky. — John Alie, who was one of the most accomplished performers in Bellarmine University lacrosse history, was selected Thursday by the Las Vegas Desert Dogs in the fifth round of the 2026 National Lacrosse League draft.

Chosen with the 55th pick, Alie became the 25th professional draft selection in program history. The attackman is the 23rd Knight to be represented in the NLL draft, including one in each of the last three years after the Saskatchewan Rush selected Denton Macdonald in the second round in 2024 and the Ottawa Bears chose Aidan Fearn in the fourth round in 2025.

"I could not be happier for John!," Bellarmine coach Andrew Whitley said. "The Desert Dogs are getting one of the best values in the draft. John's been a prolific scorer at every level he's played at, and I have no doubt that will continue for Vegas. 

"He is one of those players that could be on the Mount Rushmore of our program and for him to have an opportunity to continue playing professionally is validation of an already extraordinary career."

Alie concluded his storied career at Bellarmine as the program's all-time leader in goals (149), shots (388) and shots on goal (269) while ranking second in points (212) and third in assists (63). As a senior, the native of Aurora, Colorado, finished the regular season as the national leader in total points (75) while ranking fourth in the country in total goals (47), 10th in goals per game (2.94), 14th in points per game (4.69) and tied for 19th in total assists (28).

"Honestly, I'm just feeling incredibly grateful," Alie said of getting drafted. "It has been a dream of mine to play pro lacrosse, especially in NLL, and now being able to live out that dream is truly surreal. I grew up playing a ton of Box lacrosse and loved attending NLL games, and now I'm just extremely grateful for the opportunity."

Alie's awards-laden tenure included three All-ASUN accolades along with being recognized as the 2025 ASUN Scholar-Athlete of the Year. He was a seven-time ASUN Offensive Player of the Week. In addition to a host of ASUN academic laurels throughout his career, he was acknowledged as a 2026 USILA Scholar All-American.

Alie's class became the winningest in program history with 33 victories over four years.

"I wouldn't be in this situation today if it weren't for Bellarmine," Alie said. "I give a lot of credit to the coaching staff, including coach Whit, (Jackson) Draper, (AJ) Smith, (former associate head coach Nicholas) Marks and O (former assistant coach Mike Ondrusek), for their ability to develop talent and give guys everything they need to succeed. Also, I had the pleasure of playing with a ton of amazing guys throughout my four years, as well as connected with a number of Bellarmine alumni who had a ton of success in the NLL. Overall, my experience on the field, in the classroom, and on campus was amazing, and I wouldn't trade it for the world." 

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