FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2025
Magnolia Panther Golf Finishes as State Runner-Up After Thrilling Playoff
Bella Vista, AR — The Magnolia Panther Golf Team delivered an unforgettable performance at the Class 4A State Golf Championship this week, finishing as state runner-up after an intense playoff against Brookland High School.
With seven holes remaining, the Panthers trailed by eight strokes. Demonstrating remarkable resilience and focus, the team battled back over the final stretch to force a playoff for the championship title. Though Magnolia ultimately came up just one shot short in the playoff, their second-place finish marks the best in program history at the 4A State Championship.
Leading the way for the Panthers was Knox Stephens, who shot a stellar 70 (-2) to earn All-State honors and a second-place individual finish. Stephens will advance to compete at the High School Overall Championship on Thursday, October 16.
Additional Panther scores included Titus Nelson, who shot a 78 (+6) for a 15th-place finish; Kaden Litton, who posted an 83 (+11) to finish 34th in his final round as a Panther; and Lincoln Nelson, who recorded an 87 (+15).
Head Coach Connor Harrington praised the team’s effort, saying,
“These boys showed tremendous heart and composure today. To fight back from eight strokes down and put themselves in a position to win a state title says everything about their character and determination.”
The Magnolia School District congratulates the Panther Golf Team on a historic season and extends appreciation to the community for their continued support.
Stay tuned for updates on Knox Stephens as he represents Magnolia at the High School Overall Championship next week.