Johnson sets program record, Blue Raiders in fifth through opening day

Monday, March 23

Litchfield, Ariz.

Middle Tennessee

Bell Bank Pay It Forward Collegiate

3/23/2026 9:13:00 PM | Women's Golf

By: Logan Hasselbach

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Middle Tennessee women's golf put together a strong opening day performance at the Bell Bank "Pay It Forward" Collegiate, finishing fifth to position itself firmly in the hunt after 36 holes at Wigwam Resort in Litchfield, Ariz.

The Blue Raiders surged into the top five of the 14-team field through two rounds, using a steady second round to climb the leaderboard and separate from the middle of the pack. Middle Tennessee finished the day under par as a team, carding a 281 (-3) in the opening session of the day, followed by a 284 (E) in the afternoon. The two rounds

Leading the way for the Blue Raiders was Isabella Johnson, who continued her standout sophomore campaign with two rounds below par (68, 69). Her first-round performance crowned her as the program record holder for single season rounds at par or better, compiling 14 so far on the season. Johnson's composed play and ability to string together birdies kept her among the tournament's top contenders heading into the final round.

Ella Manley turned in a steady showing across both rounds, delivering a first round at par and a second at two-under par. Caroline Pardue showed flashes of strong play throughout the day, including an opening score of 71, before turning in a 77 (+8).

Jillian Bowman battled through the opening 36 holes with resilience, adding depth to the lineup and helping the Blue Raiders maintain their position in a competitive field. The junior fired off her fourth round at par or lower with a 71 in the morning and a 73 (+2) in the afternoon. Wrapping up the lineup, Abbie Lee had a rough morning, shooting a 77 (+6), before bouncing back at 73 (+2) in the second round.

Competing individually, Nicole Johnson turned in a season low with her first round below par (70) to open the day. She wrapped up the day with a 77 (+6) in the afternoon.

With one round remaining, Middle Tennessee sits within striking distance of the top spots on the leaderboard, setting up an opportunity to close out the tournament with another strong performance. The Blue Raiders will look to carry their momentum into Tuesday's final round as they chase a top finish in a competitive field, beginning with a 9 a.m. shot start.