For most, the second week in April is about azaleas, Amen Corner, and legends-in-the-making. But for fans across Alabama, it’s also a chance to root fiercely for some hometown heroes.

Nick Dunlap

Dunlap leads the Crimson-tinted charge, having split his youth between Huntsville and Birmingham before refining his talent at the University of Alabama. Looking for his first made cut in a major championship, this is Dunlap’s second Masters appearance after an impressive 2024 season — that began as a student at Alabama — including two PGA Tour victories for the then 20-year-old. With a balanced game well-suited for Augusta’s nuanced challenges, he’s emerging as a potential Cinderella story who might just capture national attention.

Patton Kizzire

Born and raised in Tuscaloosa, but proudly an Auburn Tiger by collegiate choice, Kizzire embodies Alabama’s complex loyalties. His journey to Augusta this year came via his win at the Procore Championship in September.

Kizzire has been a consistent player on the PGA Tour, highlighted by solid finishes and steadfast putting. Known for his easy-going nature, Kizzire will need every ounce of composure and skill to contend on golf’s most challenging stage.

This will be Kizzire’s first major championship appearance since the 2022 US Open and first Masters appearance since his T18 finish in 2019.

Davis Riley

A former Crimson Tide standout, Riley is another gifted young golfer with ties to the state looking to make his mark. Unlike many, Riley had the comfort of knowing his spot in the Masters was secure for 11 months leading up to the event by winning the Charles Schwab Challenge in May of 2024.

Riley has the poise and precision to thrive under Masters pressure with his crisp iron play and steady demeanor, positioning him as a player capable of climbing leaderboards if momentum swings his way early. Riley honed his craft on Mississippi’s junior golf circuit, quickly rising as a top amateur and later excelling in collegiate competition at Alabama.

Sepp Straka

Originally from Austria, Straka now proudly calls Birmingham home. He sharpens his game at both Greystone Country Club and Shoal Creek Golf Clubs, uniquely blending European precision with Southern flair.

Straka attended the University of Georgia, where he was an All-SEC golfer, and secured his Masters berth through notable finishes on tour. Straka wields impressive driving power and an improving short game that has him ranked #11 in the world.

His upward trajectory and rising confidence could position him as a surprise contender who might threaten the game’s top names during Masters week. Many golf analysts have listed him as a “sleeper pick” this week.

Davis Thompson

An Auburn native making his Masters debut, Thompson brings youthful optimism and a fearless approach to Augusta National.

Having climbed steadily through the professional ranks after a distinguished amateur career at the University of Georgia, Thompson’s steady swing and composed attitude suggest he’ll relish the challenge of Augusta’s grand stage. Although rookies rarely don green jackets, Thompson has the quiet resilience that just might turn heads.

Thompson’s father Todd was a highly regarded UGA golfer and longtime tournament director, deeply embedding him in the fabric of competitive golf from an early age.

Justin Thomas

Two-time major champion Justin Thomas, forever tied to the University of Alabama’s rich golfing legacy, remains Alabama’s brightest star and perennial Masters hopeful. Thomas qualified easily, thanks to his world-class game and perpetual presence atop PGA leaderboards.

His daring style, extraordinary iron accuracy, and deep competitive fire make him a formidable threat, ensuring Alabama fans will have plenty to cheer about come Sunday afternoon.

Thomas, hailing from Louisville, KY, comes from a golfing family where he was mentored by his father Mike, a renowned PGA teaching professional.

Mac Scott is an investment banker and former college golfer at Furman University. This story first appeared on Yellowhammer News.