The Rocket Mortgage Classic is set to begin its main tournament on Thursday, but the spotlight first fell on the Delta Dental Pro-Am, a star-studded event held one day prior at Detroit Golf Club. The Pro-Am brought together athletes from various sports, influencers, and celebrities, including NFL Hall of Famer Barry Sanders, current Detroit Red Wings players Dylan Larkin and Alex DeBrincat, and Hailie Jade, daughter of rapper Eminem. Each celebrity was paired with a PGA Tour professional for a nine-hole round, offering fans a unique and accessible preview of the week’s activities. Meanwhile, the previous year's tournament saw heartbreak for Akshay Bhatia, who suffered his first three-putt of the event on the final green, handing victory to Cam Davis.

Akshay Bhatia entered the final hole of the Rocket Mortgage Classic with an unblemished record—no three-putts throughout the entire tournament. However, fate had other plans as he stumbled on the last green, missing a crucial short putt that ultimately cost him the title. His slip allowed Cam Davis to seize the championship in dramatic fashion, highlighting how even the smallest misstep can alter the outcome at the highest level of professional golf.

The Delta Dental Pro-Am has become a signature event leading up to the Rocket Classic, drawing both local pride and national attention. This year’s lineup featured a mix of beloved sports icons and pop culture figures, blending entertainment with athleticism. Among the most anticipated appearances was that of Barry Sanders, whose legendary NFL career and Detroit ties made him a fan favorite. Also joining the field were members of the Detroit Lions' special teams unit—Jake Bates, Jack Fox, and Hogan Hatten—offering supporters a rare off-field chance to see them in action.

Hailie Jade, known for her social media presence and connection to Eminem, added a splash of Hollywood glamour to the event alongside her husband Evan McClintock. Alongside her were personalities like Old Time Hawkey and Jorden Kerr, who brought digital-age influence to the course. The inclusion of NASCAR driver Noah Gragson and Pistons assistant coach Sidney Lowe showcased the event’s broad appeal across different sports and industries. Every group was accompanied by a PGA Tour pro, giving amateurs a chance to shine alongside seasoned professionals during the nine-hole exhibition.

The Rocket Classic continues to grow in prestige, attracting not only top-tier golf talent but also a vibrant mix of cultural figures and athletic crossover stars. With free admission and parking for spectators, the Pro-Am served as an inclusive kickoff to what promises to be an exciting week of elite competition. As 156 players prepare for the main event, the blend of sport, celebrity, and community remains central to the tournament’s identity, ensuring it stands out on the PGA Tour calendar year after year.