MARICOPA, Az. (May 22, 2026) – The University of North Alabama men's golf team opened its first postseason tournament at the Division I level on Saturday, starting in 10th place at four-over at the National Golf Invitational in Maricopa, Az.

UNA was one of 10 teams selected to the tournament in the NGI's fourth year of play. The Lions used four seniors in the five-man starting lineup in Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club.

North Alabama finished four-over for the morning round with 13 birdies finding the cup. Seniors Sebastian Bengtsson and Blake Henriques led the team with even-par rounds through the first round; both finished in a tie for 28th.

Today was the second start of the season for redshirt-freshman Luke Davis, as he finished tied for 49th on the first day. His other start came in the Turtle Point Invite this past fall.

Senior Xing Luo took a tie for 36th and finished his day on a heater with eight straight holes with either a par or birdie on the back nine. Senior Corey Maher finished tied for 43rd with a three-over day with two birdies.

SEC power Missouri led the field at 18-under with a total score of 270. The Tigers were one of seven teams to shoot under par for the first day.

Grand Canyon (-17), Rhode Island (-14), Nevada (-14) and Mercer (-8) rounded out the top five of teams.

"We are a little rusty today with how long ago conference was played with four seniors having graduated, as well," said The Schmitz Family Head Men's Golf Coach Austin Phillips. "I know we will come back better tomorrow. Hopefully we have a big round in our future."

North Alabama continues play with redshirt freshman Luke Davis leading the way at 8:45 a.m. CT for the second round.

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