What's Happening?
Michael La Sasso, the reigning NCAA individual champion, has decided to join Phil Mickelson's HyFlyers GC, part of the LIV Golf league. This move means La Sasso will forfeit his remaining college eligibility and leave Ole Miss before completing his final semester. The 21-year-old golfer, who had an exemption lined up for the Masters in April, will debut at the LIV opener in Saudi Arabia. La Sasso's decision follows a trend of NCAA champions joining the Saudi-backed league, with Turk Pettit having made a similar move in 2022. La Sasso's coach, Chris Malloy, noted that the decision was financially motivated and difficult for La Sasso, who is known for his team spirit. Despite his departure, Ole Miss remains optimistic about their season, with seven
players still on the roster.
Why It's Important?
La Sasso's move to LIV Golf highlights the growing influence of the league, which continues to attract top talent from traditional golf circuits. This shift could impact the dynamics of college golf, as more players might consider turning professional earlier to capitalize on financial opportunities. For Ole Miss, losing a key player like La Sasso could affect their performance in upcoming NCAA championships. On a broader scale, the decision underscores the ongoing competition between LIV Golf and established tours like the PGA, as LIV continues to lure players with lucrative contracts. This trend could lead to significant changes in how golf talent is developed and retained in the U.S.
What's Next?
La Sasso is set to make his debut with HyFlyers GC at the LIV opener in Saudi Arabia. His departure from Ole Miss leaves the team with a challenge, but coach Chris Malloy is confident in the remaining players' ability to step up. The move may prompt other NCAA players to consider similar transitions, potentially altering the landscape of college golf. As LIV Golf continues to expand its roster, traditional tours may need to adapt their strategies to retain top talent. The impact of these shifts will likely be observed in upcoming tournaments and player performances.
