LIV Golf's Smash GC Rebrands as OKGC, Establishing First US-Aligned Franchise

LIV Golf announced Tuesday that its team Smash GC has been rebranded as OKGC. This strategic move establishes Oklahoma as the team's home market, marking the Saudi-funded circuit's first franchise directly aligned with a U.S. market.

Led by Oklahoma native and team captain Talor Gooch, OKGC will debut under its new identity at the LIV Golf Virginia event in Washington. The team also includes Graeme McDowell, Jason Kokrak, and Harold Varner III.

"Oklahoma is where I grew up and where I learned how to compete," Gooch stated. "To now represent this state through OKGC and bring that identity with us around the world is something I'm really proud of."

The rebranding follows recent reports questioning LIV Golf's financial stability, with CEO Scott O'Neil assuring players of the league's continued operation.

LIV Golf aims to leverage the Oklahoma market for new partnership, merchandise, fan engagement, and player recruitment opportunities, while preserving its global competitive structure. This initiative builds on the success of team identities in international markets, extending the strategy to the United States.