Nishiba Blasts 65 to Lead Strong USC Men’s Golf in Second Round at Goodwin

Men’s Golf | March 31, 2023

Junior Krando Nishiba had a flawless Friday, shooting a 5-under 65 to lead the USC men’s golf team to one of the best second rounds at The Goodwin at TPC Harding Park.

The Trojans combined for a 6-under 274 and moved up eight spots in the 28-team field for seventh at 1-over 561 (287-274). Georgia Tech leads the under-13s.

Mahanth Chirravuri remained USC’s overall leader at 1-under 139 (69-70) and was 16th as a sophomore. Gavin Aurilia is a setback after a second straight par 70, at 25th at 140.

But it was Nishiba’s day. The junior went 2-under with birdies 2 and 9 and held the hot hand behind with birdies 11, 13 and 18 to join Aurilia in a tie for 25th.

It was Nishiba’s best round as a Trojan and matched his best against the pair. His previous best was a 5-under 66 in the second round of the 2022 Pac-12 Championships.

“Krando was outstanding today,” USC coach JT Higgins said. “He hit some great shots, but his short game was great. He’s worked really hard to improve that area of ​​his game and it showed today.

“The whole team fought so hard, grinding out pars throughout the round. I’m proud of the toughness and heart we played with today.”

Second year student Jackson Rivera carded a 1-under 69, his team’s sixth round in the 60s this year, and moved into a tie for 47 at 2-142 (73-69).

Senior Jack Boulger is tied for 139th. at 11-over 151 (75-76).

The last round will be played on Saturday.