‘Really Wanted This One’: Arizona States Golf Team Weighs On Insane Playoff Victory At NCAA Championship

In the heat of competition, when victory hangs in the balance and dreams are on the line, it takes more than skill and talent to prevail. It takes nerves of steel, unwavering determination, and an insatiable hunger to win. Such was the case for the Arizona State golf team as they embarked on an unforgettable journey at the NCAA Championship. The title was within reach, and the pressure was palpable as they faced a high-stakes playoff.

Battling through the crucible: The intense playoff showdown

The Arizona State golf team demonstrated unwavering determination as they emerged victorious in a high-stakes playoff, keeping their dreams of an NCAA title alive. Led by head coach Matt Thurmond, the Sun Devils had honed their skills for pressure-packed situations. And their resilience was tested at Grayhawk Golf Club.

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Following 72 holes of stroke play that ended with a tie at 12 over. Arizona State found themselves in a sudden-death playoff against Stanford. The winner would earn the opportunity to face top-seeded North Carolina in the NCAA Championship quarterfinals. The intensity was palpable as the Sun Devils fiercely battled it out, with the victor only determined after an additional round of extra holes.

Ryggs Johnston said, “Being the last time that we’re going to get this on our home course, it’s just, we had to get this done today…We had to get into the top 8 because we know once we get into match play anything can happen, it was just getting here. And it was a battle, but man, we really wanted this one.”

With both teams deadlocked at even par, the spotlight fell on Arizona State’s talented sophomore, Preston Summerhays, and Stanford’s junior standout, Michael Thorbjornsen. Summerhays faced a crucial 10-foot uphill putt for birdie on the par-4 14th hole. Carrying the weight of immense pressure on his shoulders, he delivered a remarkable stroke. By sinking the putt and propelling Arizona State into match play at Grayhawk for the third consecutive year.

Resilience under pressure: Arizona state’s NCAA title pursuit

Coach Thurmond acknowledged the significance of these clutch putts, highlighting the importance of his players’ performances and recognizing that they would face similar pressure in future matches. The Sun Devils exhibited remarkable resilience and composure when it mattered most, securing a hard-fought victory.

However, the pressure on Arizona State extends beyond this playoff triumph. Hosting the national championship on their home course adds an additional layer of expectation. Despite the challenges of missing key players from last year’s lineup, the Sun Devils have remained among the nation’s top teams, earning a commendable fourth-place ranking. Throughout the season, they have thrived under pressure, delivering impressive performances.

As the NCAA Championship progresses into the knockout stage, Arizona State gears up to face the formidable North Carolina squad, now the team to beat following top-ranked Vanderbilt’s unexpected exit. The Sun Devils are well aware of the arduous path that lies ahead, but their determination remains steadfast. They have weathered the storm and are now prepared to confront any opponent.

In this thrilling pursuit of the NCAA title, seedings and rankings hold little significance. Coach Thurmond firmly believes that, at this stage, all teams start from scratch, and victory is within reach for anyone. The Sun Devils enter match play with unwavering confidence. Showcasing their collective resilience and sending a resounding message to their rivals that they are a force to be reckoned with.

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