NHL Hall of Famer Joe Pavelski took the first-round lead at the American Century Championship. The tournament, which is being held at Edgewood Tahoe in South Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Pavelski’s 23 points were the best in the tournament’s modified Stableford scoring system, further establishing his elite level of play against a highly skilled field.
Pavelski lost in the championship to Mardy Fish, the eventual 2020 champion. This year, he has crushed it, using his experience and weight of expectation to his advantage. He expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, “Obviously, the first tee and first-round excitement was there. Nerves were there.” His round put him in first place overall and provided a hopeful wave of momentum to carry into the rest of the tournament.
In the opening round, Pavelski skated with comedian Nate Bargatze and actor Larry the Cable Guy. It did not hurt that it was great fun to see their good-natured rivalry and spirited chatter as they played alongside an absolutely stacked field of talent and amusement.
Highlighting those performances was legendary golfer and former Auburn basketball star Charles Barkley, who had himself a special day on the course. Barkley had nine points and made an incredible double-eagle on the par-4 second hole, holing out from 88 yards. All these years later, he could still feel the kinetic energy in the air. It brought so much energy and excitement to the beginning of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Mardy Fish, who previously claimed victory at this event, scored 17 points in his round alongside John Smoltz and Annika Sorenstam. Though Fish did all that he could, he was still forced to settle for the tiebreaker 24th place of 90 total players.
Joining Stephen Curry on the court was his father Dell and his brother Seth. Though we can’t tell you what Curry’s score was, his appearance brought an exciting element of surprise and showmanship to the event.
As the tournament continues, everyone — spectators and participants alike — are wondering whether Pavelski can maintain his lead. Will he reclaim the crown this season? Twenty-seven years into its run, the American Century Championship remains a one-of-a-kind sporting event that marries competition and Easter Egg-providing entertainment.
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