Michael La Sasso Stuns Golf World: NCAA Champion Abandons Masters for LIV Golf with Phil Mickelson's HyFlyers

Phil Mickelson’s HyFlyers GC has landed one of college golf’s brightest stars as reigning NCAA individual champion Michael La Sasso officially turns professional to join the LIV Golf League. The 21-year-old Ole Miss standout announced the decision Tuesday, ending his collegiate career early and surrendering his invitation to the 2026 Masters earned through last spring’s national title triumph. La Sasso captured three victories during the 2024-25 season, posted a school-record 69.48 scoring average, and climbed to No. 1 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking before helping the U.S. Walker Cup team last September. Despite a slower fall semester that saw him finish outside the top-15 in two starts, the Dallas native remained one of the most coveted prospects in men’s golf. “LIV Golf allows me to compete at the highest level on a global stage, and I thrive in a team environment,” La Sasso said in a release, adding that learning under six-time major winner Mickelson was “a rare opportunity I don’t take lightly.” Mickelson called the newcomer “one of the most exciting young players in the game,” praising La Sasso’s combination of “tremendous power and speed with exceptional feel.” The HyFlyers lineup for 2026 now features Mickelson, veterans Brendan Steele and Cameron Tringale, and the NCAA champion, giving the squad a blend of proven experience and explosive youth ahead of the league’s Feb. 4-7 opener at Riyadh Golf Club. For Ole Miss, the departure is a seismic blow to national-title aspirations after last season’s semifinal run. Head coach Chris Malloy must replace both La Sasso’s low scores and his leadership as the Rebels chase a return trip to the NCAA finals at Omni La Costa. Key Takeaways for Fans and Searchers • Michael La Sasso leaves Ole Miss, forfeits amateur status and 2026 Masters invite. • Joins Phil Mickelson’s HyFlyers GC for the upcoming LIV Golf season. • Adds youthful firepower to a roster already featuring Brendan Steele and Cameron Tringale. • Departure reshapes Ole Miss’s chances in the spring collegiate season. La Sasso’s professional debut in Riyadh will be closely watched as analysts gauge whether the NCAA champion’s aggressive playing style can translate quickly to the 54-hole, team-based format that defines LIV Golf.