Ben James, a sophomore at Virginia, believes he is playing better this season despite not having any wins. Last year, he won five times and was named Freshman of the Year. This season, he has two top fives and six top-10 finishes. Despite the lack of wins, James feels his game has improved overall. He is currently T-2 at the NCAA Men’s Golf Championship, two shots behind the leader, with one round to play.
Virginia coach Bowen Sargent believes James has improved this season, despite the lack of wins. Managing expectations and remaining patient have been key for James, especially after receiving a pace-of-play penalty during the first round. The individual winner of the NCAA championship will earn exemptions into the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 and the 2025 Masters if they accept the exemptions as amateurs. Ohio State’s Adam Wallin currently leads the tournament, with James close behind.
Despite the pressure of the tournament, James remains focused and believes that things happen for a reason. He is determined to stay patient and let the game come to him, rather than forcing it. His ability to remain calm and composed under pressure has been a key factor in his success this season.
While James may not have as many wins as last year, he has been consistent and feels that his game has improved overall. His coach, Sargent, acknowledges that being patient and allowing opportunities to come to him have been important aspects of James’ game. As he heads into the final round of the tournament, James remains focused on the opportunity to potentially earn exemptions into prestigious events.
As James competes in the final round of the NCAA Men’s Golf Championship, he is focused on maintaining his consistency and remaining patient. Despite the pressure of the situation, James is determined to continue playing his best and possibly secure his first win of the season. With the opportunity to earn exemptions into major tournaments on the line, James remains focused on the task at hand and the potential for a successful finish.
