Scottie Scheffler’s May 18 PGA Championship victory did more than add another trophy, it cemented his name beside golf royalty. The Dallas native became just the third man, alongside Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus, to amass 15 PGA Tour wins and three majors before turning 29. That’s elite territory, and it’s got fans—and friends—buzzing.
Even more impressively, consider Scheffler’s track record. He already had two green jackets at Augusta, but now, with his latest Major secured at Quail Hollow, he’s basically stacking trophies like it’s nothing. The crazy part? He hasn’t even hit 29 yet. Just a few weeks shy of his birthday, and he’s now rubbing shoulders with legends.
Meanwhile, former NBA champ Avery Johnson couldn’t hide his pride. The 1999 Spurs title-winner gave Scheffler a huge shoutout on his Instagram story, posting a pic of the golfer and his family celebrating with the trophy. He captioned it, “Congratulations @scottie.scheffler and family!!! See you in BIG D!!!” Clearly, it’s more than just fanfare—this is personal.
That makes sense, considering what Golf Digest revealed on X via analyst Justin Ray. Tiger turned 29 in December 2004, having already captured seven Majors—including his historic ‘Tiger Slam’. Jack Nicklaus? Same deal. By January 1969, just before his 29th, the Golden Bear also had seven Majors under his belt.
AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 10: Scottie Scheffler of the United States leaves the 13th green during the first round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 10, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Now, Scheffler joins that rare air. And if you’ve been tracking him lately, this win at the PGA Championship isn’t just a one-off. It follows his recent CJ Cup Byron Nelson title—making it back-to-back wins. Plus, fun fact—Scheffler and Avery go way back, and last year, they even teamed up for something special.
Avery Johnson and Scottie Scheffler’s hidden connection
The NBA champ and the PGA star go way back—way before trophies and titles started piling up. On October 27th last year, Avery Johnson and Scottie Scheffler showed up for something a little different from courts and courses. Last October 27, in South Dallas, Johnson and Scheffler joined Dude Perfect at the Behind Every Door Olympic Games. The event was a Veritex Bank-sponsored fundraiser that drew families for track sprints, 3-point contests, and putting challenges.
The event kicked off from 4 PM to 7 PM and packed in a full slate of action. As per the official site, there were “friendly competitions and prizes,” and honestly, the lineup felt like a sports carnival. From a 100-yard dash and football throw to a 3-point shootout and longest putt—there was something for everyone, kids and adults alike.
Naturally, Avery Johnson couldn’t let the moment pass without sharing it. “Had an amazing time teaming up with @dudeperfect and PGA Champ Scottie Scheffler to put together a special event for @behindeverydoor,” he posted on Instagram, giving fans a peek into the day’s magic.
And to make it even more special, Johnson added, “We’re inviting families nationwide to purchase a $5 raffle ticket for a chance to join us at the Behind Every Door Olympic Games on October 27th! Three winning families will be selected, and we’ll cover flights and hotel accommodations for up to four family members.”
Scheffler even joined Behind Every Door for the silent auction. And the winner got a “30-minute putting lesson” from the PGA champ. No wonder Johnson’s still smiling after Scheffler’s PGA win.
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