SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Nev. — Against a breathtaking backdrop of blue skies, mountain vistas, and crystal-clear water, former NHL All-Star Joe Pavelski delivered a championship-caliber performance to win the 36th annual American Century Championship at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, capping off a weekend that once again solidified this event as one of the most unique spectacles in all of sports and entertainment.
With more than 84,000 fans packing the course over three glorious days, the energy and excitement around this year’s tournament was palpable. From superstar athletes to beloved actors and musicians, the American Century Championship continues to be a perfect blend of competition, comedy, and community.
“There really is no event like this,” said Pavelski, who not only walked away with the trophy but earned a piece of Tahoe golf immortality. “I think the number one objective this week was to make a hole-in-one and get a new boat,” he joked. “Actually, it was probably the second. I really wanted to win.”
Using the tournament’s modified Stableford scoring system—which rewards aggressive play with six points for eagles, three for birdies, and one for par—Pavelski stayed steady across the three rounds, capitalizing on his precision and competitive edge. He joins a long list of winners that includes NFL quarterbacks, NBA legends, and even a few Hollywood heavyweights.
One of the weekend’s fan favorites, Golden State Warriors guard Steph Curry, returned after his thrilling win last year and finished strong with 58 points, earning a Top 5 finish and reminding fans why he remains one of the most talented athletes on and off the court.
The Kelce effect
But perhaps no duo drew more attention—or laughter—than the Kelce brothers, Jason and Travis. Their larger-than-life personalities were on full display from the practice rounds to the 18th green. Travis, noticeably slimmed down and looking NFL-season ready, mixed in some competitive swings with his signature charisma, while Jason charmed fans with his dry humor and high-fives.
Another annual favorite, Charles Barkley, once again became a central figure of attention—not just for his swing, but for the prop bet placed by Caesars Sportsbook: Would Sir Charles finish better than 65.5 among the 90-player field? Fans tracked his score as closely as the leaders, underscoring how much personality drives this event. (Spoiler: Charles continues to defy expectations and inspire memes in equal measure.)
Charles Barkley talks about his improved play
The field included a who’s who of celebrity golfers: “Top Gun: Maverick” star Miles Teller brought his laid-back cool to the greens, drawing cheers from fans with each solid shot, while other athletes and entertainers soaked in the atmosphere that only Lake Tahoe can offer.
Perfect summer weather—sunny and warm, with a cool breeze rolling in off the lake—made for ideal conditions and added to the already electric environment. Fans lined every fairway, many stationed on boats just offshore, ringing cowbells, waving signs, and creating memories as much as the players did.
In the end, while there’s only one official winner, the American Century Championship is less about the final leaderboard and more about the experience: the shared laughs, the jaw-dropping shots, the unexpected connections, and the feeling that—for one weekend in July—everyone’s part of the show.
And once again, Lake Tahoe delivered a masterpiece.
