Jim Nantz is a distinguished American sportscaster known for his extensive work with CBS Sports. Born on May 17, 1959, in Charlotte, North Carolina, he has been a prominent voice in sports broadcasting since the 1980s.
Career Highlights:
- CBS Sports Tenure: Nantz joined CBS Sports in 1985, initially serving as a studio host for college football and basketball. He transitioned to play-by-play announcing, covering events such as the NFL, NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, and PGA Tour.
- The Masters: Since 1989, Nantz has been the lead broadcaster for The Masters golf tournament, becoming synonymous with its coverage. He is known for his heartfelt “Hello, friends” greeting at the start of each broadcast.
- NFL Coverage: Nantz has served as CBS’s lead NFL play-by-play announcer since 2004, calling numerous significant games, including multiple Super Bowls.
Retirement Plans:
In March 2025, Nantz announced his intention to retire from calling The Masters after the 2036 tournament. This year will mark the 100th edition of The Masters, aligning with his 50th year covering the event. He referred to this as a “perfect exit point,” though he acknowledged that plans could change based on health and other factors.
Personal Traditions:
Each year, Nantz observes a personal ritual at Augusta National Golf Club before The Masters. He visits Amen Corner during the Par-3 Tournament on Wednesday for a moment of reflection and prayer, expressing gratitude for his role in covering the tournament.
Jim Nantz’s career has left an indelible mark on sports broadcasting, and his planned retirement after The Masters in 2036 will conclude an era of exceptional coverage and memorable moments.