This week on The JustIn Time Podcast, we welcome Jeff Sluman-1988 PGA Champion, six-time PGA Tour winner, and one of golf’s most respected voices. We dive deep into Jeff’s remarkable journey: from his breakthrough major victory at Oak Tree, to unforgettable duels with legends like Sandy Lyle and Nick Faldo, and what it felt like seeing his name alongside Jack Nicklaus and Walter Hagen on the PGA trophy. Jeff shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories, including his unique friendship with Michael Jordan-complete with tales of competitive golf rounds and courtside seats during the Bulls’ dynasty. We also explore Jeff’s surprising bowling prowess, his memories of playing with Arnold Palmer, and his candid thoughts on the “alpha dogs” of golf, past and present. If you’re a sports fan who craves authentic conversation, rich history, and the human stories behind the headlines, this episode is for you.
⏰ Timestamps:
(00:00:00) – Welcome & Introduction: Justin introduces Jeff Sluman, his PGA Tour legacy, and their first meeting at Cal Club
(00:02:50) – Early Career & First PGA Tour Win: Sluman’s journey through the Asian Tour, Tallahassee Open, and breaking through
(00:04:24) – The 1987 Players Championship Playoff: Facing Sandy Lyle, playoff drama, and the infamous fan in the water
(00:12:29) – Building Resilience: How the Players loss fueled his 1988 PGA Championship win
(00:13:39) – Hoisting the Major Trophy: Emotions of winning, seeing his name with golf legends
(00:16:44) – Growing Up in Rochester: Limited golf season, bowling background, and near-perfect games
(00:20:10) – Chicago Years & Michael Jordan: Golfing with MJ, Bulls dynasty, and unforgettable sports moments
(00:23:38) – Best Bulls Games & Chicago Sports Scene: Favorite in-person games, Sosa/McGwire home run race, city’s sports energy
(00:26:10) – Golfing & Competing with MJ: MJ’s golf handicap, competitive spirit, and gin rummy stories
(00:30:09) – Alpha Dogs of Golf: Curtis Strange, Tom Watson, Jack Nicklaus, and today’s top competitors
(00:33:54) – Masters Memories: Rory’s dramatic win, Sluman’s hole-in-one at Augusta, and major championship emotions
(00:40:04) – 1992 Season Highlights: Top finishes at Augusta and Pebble Beach, struggles at The Open
(00:44:42) – Mentors & Meeting Legends: Jay Haas, Curtis Strange, Tom Watson, and early tour influences
(00:46:30) – Playing with Arnold Palmer: Childhood memories, playing as defending champ, and Arnie’s Army
(00:51:30) – Comparing Golf Icons: Palmer, Tiger, Jack, and Sluman’s relationships with legends
(00:52:28) – Assistant Captain Roles: Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup experiences, Miracle at Medinah
💡Key Topics:
📌 Jeff Sluman’s journey to becoming a PGA Champion
📌 Inside stories from the 1987 Players Championship playoff
📌 Playing and competing with Michael Jordan during the Bulls’ dynasty
📌 Reflections on golf’s greatest “alpha dogs”-Nicklaus, Watson, Faldo, and today’s stars
📌 Behind-the-scenes at the Masters, Ryder Cup, and President’s Cup
📌 Personal stories: Bowling feats, favorite courses, and memories with Arnold Palmer
🏌️♂️ About Jeff Sluman:
Jeff Sluman is a six-time PGA Tour winner and the 1988 PGA Champion, renowned for his consistency and sportsmanship over a career spanning four decades. He’s played alongside-and against-golf’s greatest legends, served as assistant captain in Ryder and President’s Cups, and remains a respected voice in the game.
🎙️ About the JustIn Time Podcast:
The JustIn Time Podcast brings you exclusive, in-depth conversations with the biggest names in sports and beyond. As veteran broadcasters, Justin brings unfiltered discussions with legendary coaches, professional athletes, and influential figures who share their remark
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