Chambana Sun

University of Illinois alumni and former teammates Thomas Detry and Brian Campbell have each achieved their first PGA TOUR victories. Detry claimed the title at the WM Phoenix Open, while Campbell secured his win at the Mexico Open at VidantaWorld. These victories occurred within a span of three weeks.

"It makes me so proud and happy to see Thomas and Brian earn their first wins on the PGA TOUR," expressed head coach Mike Small. "For both of them to satisfy lifelong goals of becoming PGA TOUR winners within just two weeks of each other, makes this extra special to all of us."

Small highlighted their contributions during their time at Illinois, saying, "As teammates here at Illinois, both Thomas and Brian played huge roles in the success of our program." He further noted their dedication: "The effort that they gave to their games while at Illinois is similar to how hard they have continued to work to attain their level of success on the PGA TOUR. It can't be overstated how their level of perseverance, commitment, and dedication to their craft epitomizes everything that is important to our program, and we are so happy to have them be proud alums and ambassadors of Illinois golf!"

Detry's victory came in a lively setting at the WM Phoenix Open on February 9. Two weeks later, Campbell achieved his win after a dramatic playoff finish at the Mexico Open on February 23.

With these wins, both players have extended exemptions through 2027 in the winners category. They will now have opportunities to compete in prestigious tournaments such as THE PLAYERS Championship, the PGA Championship, and the Masters, along with five remaining signature events this season.

Detry and Campbell are now part of an elite group from Small's 2014-15 Illini squad who have secured PGA TOUR victories in recent seasons. They join Nick Hardy, another former teammate who won at the 2023 Zurich Classic of New Orleans.