Player To Root For Files: Brooks Koepka

Nick Masuda files a super piece on qualifier Brooks Koepka, who's been playing some amazing golf while dealing with the shock and burden of his mother's rare form of cancer. Mom Denise is doing well (cancer free) and took in his first two practice rounds. She will be on hand when he tees off at 2:42 Thursday (and he's on Twitter).

"Everyone has family challenges I think, but (Brooks') mental toughness, drive and determination was in some way challenged to get through all of this," Jakows said. "I have so much to be thankful for, to see him ratchet down on his mental toughness and succeed.

"I am on cloud nine."

Meanwhile, Chase will head to the Sunnehanna Amateur in Johnstown, Pa., one of the nation's big summer events. But at least a little bit of his attention – outside the ropes – will be on the happenings in San Francisco.

"These are great moments for both of us," Chase said. "I am playing in the biggest tournament of my career, and Brooks is also playing in the biggest of his. He'll get a chance to see how he measures up against the guys he wants to play with, and I'll get a chance to see where I am before I go to USF.