LAS VEGAS PREVIEW: SMASH GC AIMS FOR MORE

Team: Smash Golf Club
Previous event team finish: 7th
Season-long team standings: 7th
Top finisher from previous event: Brooks Koepka (T5)
Fun stat: Smash GC led the field at Mayakoba in Fairways Hit percentage (48.57%).

Preview

There wasn’t much to complain about when it came to Smash Golf Club’s 2024 debut. Their captain led the way, a highly anticipated addition went low, a major-winning veteran did his part, and a steadying force was fully focused.

As Smash GC turns its attention to LIV Golf Las Vegas this week, the players can rely on plenty of positives from last week’s season opener at Mayakoba. The seventh-place team finish was only five shots out of a podium finish.

Captain Brooks Koepka was the only team member to shoot under par all three days, and it added up to a more than solid T5 finish. With all eyes on Talor Gooch, the 2023 Individual Champion, making his Smash GC debut, he didn’t flinch, counted all three scores and went 5 under on the weekend. Jason Kokrak finished 1 under on the weekend, and major champion Graeme McDowell had the team’s second-best score on Friday to help his team to a fast start.

It all combines to be an intriguing team that can make serious noise in 2024, as Mayakoba showed. A couple of lower numbers from their leaders, and a few above average marks from contributors will go a long way this season, especially with all four scores counting in final rounds.

As for Las Vegas Country Club, the team should feel comfortable. The layout doesn’t beg for a long hitter, and more emphasis is placed on iron play and a sharp short game. This roster excels on both fronts, so expect another good finish – if not a podium finish – in the desert.