Joe Pavelski trades ice for greens and dominates American Century celebrity golf event in surprise victory
Joe Pavelski turned 41 over the weekend, and he couldn't have asked for a better birthday gift. The former NHL star delivered a commanding performance at the American Century Championship in Edgewood Tahoe, securing a wire-to-wire win and sealing it with a spectacular eagle on the final day.
With a 29-point round using the modified Stableford scoring system, Pavelski finished with 73 points—nine ahead of his closest rival, former MLB pitcher John Smoltz.
Joe Pavelski beats NFL, NBA legends to claim American Century celebrity golf crown in epic finish
Pavelski, who had narrowly missed the title last year to Mardy Fish, returned with determination and poise. This year, he wouldn't settle for second. His consistent play over the three rounds was capped off by a dramatic final hole that left the crowd in awe.
'I don't know what to say, actually,' Pavelski admitted post-win. 'But just an amazing week. This place is incredible. It means the world to me.'
For his victory, Pavelski took home $150,000 from the $750,000 prize pool, a fitting reward for his near-flawless run throughout the tournament.
Smoltz, who finished with 28 points on the final day and a total of 64, gave credit to Pavelski's performance while reflecting on his own game.
'I was trying to put heat on anybody, the top three,' Smoltz said. 'I was just trying to climb as many people as I could.'
The leaderboard saw a mix of athletes and entertainers battling for top spots. Country singer Jake Owen impressed with a 21-point round, finishing third with 62 points. Former U.S. soccer star Taylor Twellman, who had shared the lead with Pavelski after the second round, dropped to fourth with 61 points after posting 17 on the final day.
NBA sharpshooter and 2023 champion Stephen Curry ended fifth with 58, highlighted by a strong 23-point final round.
Meanwhile, Charles Barkley, a perennial fan favorite, finished near the bottom of the 90-player field with minus-17 points.
Pavelski's performance shows his golf skills but also highlights his competitive spirit—proving once again that champions never fade, they simply switch arenas.
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