Nishiba Blasts 65 to Lead Strong USC Men’s Golf Second Round At The Goodwin

Men’s Golf | March 31, 2023

Junior Krando Nishiba was flawless Friday, firing 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 6-under 274 to move up eight spots in the standings in the 28-team field to seventh at 1-over 561 (287-274). Georgia Tech leads at 13-under.

Mahanth Chirravuri remained USC’s overall leader at 1-under 139 (69-70), tied for 16th, while sophomore Gavin Aurilia is a shot back after his second straight par 70, tied for 25th at 140.

But it was Nishiba’s day. The junior went out at 2-under with birdies on 2 and 9 and kept the hot hand on the back with birdies on 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 effort in relation to par. His previous best was a 5-under 66 in the 2022 Pac-12 Championships second round.

“Krando was outstanding today,” USC Coach J.T. Higgins said. “He hit some terrific shots but his short game was stellar. He has worked really hard to improve that area of his game and it really showed today.

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

Sophomore Jackson Rivera carded a 1-under 69, his team-high-tying sixth round in the 60s this year, to move into a tie for 47th at 2-over 142 (73-69).

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

The final round is set for Saturday.