Star Ole Miss golfer Michael La Sasso is ending his senior campaign in Oxford early to pursue a pro career.
The NCAA’s reigning individual champion is taking his talents to Saudi Arabia to be part of golf giant Phil Mickelson’s HyFlyers GC in the LIV Golf league. La Sasso’s decision to join the PGA rival means he will forfeit the remainder of his college career and a special invitation to compete in the Masters this spring.
“I’m incredibly excited to join HyFlyers GC and take this next step in my career. It’s a rare opportunity to learn from one of the greatest players in the history of the game, and I don’t take that lightly,” La Sasso stated. “LIV Golf allows me to compete at the highest level on a global stage, and I thrive in a team environment, especially one with the camaraderie and support that defines HyFlyers GC. My focus is on learning, continuing to improve, and doing everything I can to help our team succeed.”
Welcome to the team, 2025 NCAA Individual Champion, Michael La Sasso!#HyFlyersGC #LIVGolf #michaellasasso pic.twitter.com/VzhNXFB6FU
— HyFlyers GC (@HyFlyers_GC) January 20, 2026
La Sasso, a North Carolina native and NC State transfer, won last year’s individual title crown by two strokes, becoming the first Rebel to ride out on top since Braden Thornberry won it all in 2017. He also played a crucial role in Ole Miss’ NCAA Tournament semifinal finish in 2025.
“While we had hoped that Michael would have been part of our run at an NCAA Championship this spring, we respect his decision to begin his professional career,” Ole Miss head golf coach Chris Malloy said. “What he accomplished at Ole Miss will never be forgotten, and he will forever be a Rebel great. Michael has a bright future ahead of him in professional golf, and we wish him nothing but the best.”
La Sasso was invited to represent Team USA at the 2025 Walker Cup, while also making six PGA Tour appearances. His most recent professional tournament stop was at the Sanderson Farms Championship in Jackson, where he was penalized for allegedly improving playing surface conditions before hitting the ball. He ultimately missed the cut at the tournament. Turning the page, La Sasso is expected to make his LIV debut during the league’s opener next month.
“Michael is one of the most exciting young players in the game today, bringing a competitive fire that’s evident every time he tees it up,” Mickelson said. “He combines tremendous power and speed with an exceptional feel for the game. Beyond his talent, his personality, work ethic, and commitment to being a great teammate make him a terrific addition.”
As for Ole Miss, the Rebels will continue their season at the Thomas Sharkey Individual in Statesboro, Ga., from Jan. 31 through Feb. 1. With La Sasso absent, Malloy’s group will be led by Tom Fischer, Cameron Tankersley, and Cohen Trolio.
