Our Must-Watch Teams at the Grant Thornton Invitational

It might not be the biggest event in the world, but the Grant Thornton Invitational has become one of my favorite late-year tournaments to watch. Something about mixing the LPGA’s and PGA TOUR’s best will always get me to tune in.

The first round kicks off on Friday morning at Tiburn Golf Club in Naples, Florida, with a scramble. On Saturday, the teams will play alternate shot, and Sunday will be modified four-ball (players will switch balls after hitting their drives and play the hole from there).

Although all 16 teams are pretty damn good, there are four that I’d label “must-watch.”

Grant Thornton Invitational: Field

Lottie Woad and Luke Clanton

Two former FSU Seminoles who dominated at the college and amateur levels, and are now rising superstars on the LPGA and PGA TOUR? Yeah, I’ll be watching these two

Woad, 21, joined the LPGA this summer and won in her first pro start at the Women’s Scottish Open. She also tied for eighth at the Women’s Open a week later. As an amateur, Woad won the Augusta National Women’s Amateur in 2024. She’s a problem.

And so is Clanton, who became the first amateur since the 50s to finish inside the top-10 in back-to-back TOUR starts. He’s going to win…a lot.

Patty Tavatanakit and Jake Knapp

These two were so much fun to watch at Tiburon a year ago; they had to go on this list. Knapp’s swing is mesmerizing, and Patty is an absolute blast. Plus, it’s always fun to see if the reigning champ can go back-to-back.

RELATED: How Jake Knapp is Handling the Pressure as Defending Champ

Nelly Korda and Denny McCarthy

Korda has one of the best swings in golf, and McCarthy is arguably the best putter on the planet. From tee to green, this team will be a joy to watch. And since Nelly didn’t get a W this year, this is her last chance to get on the board.

RELATED: Player's Journal: Denny McCarthy on Heading Home, and Always Improving

Megan Khang and Keith Mitchell

This pairing is just a couple of players who are out there to have a good time. As a fellow New Englander, I pull for Megan every week she tees it up. Keith is your favorite flusher’s favorite flusher. Plus, I’m jealous of the ridiculous amount of cashmere in his closet.

RELATED: These LPGA Stars Are Among The Highest-Paid Female Athletes in 2025