Few voices in the realm of sports broadcasting evoke the same reverence and recognition as Jim Nantz. Known for his polished tone, heartfelt delivery, and encyclopedic knowledge of sports, Jim Nantz has become synonymous with some of the most iconic moments in sports history. For over four decades, he has narrated the triumphs and heartbreaks of athletes, serving not only as a commentator but also as a storyteller, weaving emotional arcs with a voice as familiar as an old friend.
From calling the final putt at Augusta to narrating buzzer-beaters at the Final Four and touchdown drives during NFL Sundays, Jim Nantz has done it all. This article delves deep into his life, career, signature moments, personal interests, philanthropic endeavors, and legacy, offering a comprehensive look at one of the most respected figures in American sports media.
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Early Life and Passion for Sports
Jim Nantz was born James William Nantz III on May 17, 1959, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Raised in the suburban town of Colts Neck, New Jersey, Nantz was immersed in a household that revered sports. His father, Jim Nantz Jr., was a lifelong sports enthusiast who passed down his passion to his son. As a child, Jim Nantz was known to mimic broadcasters he heard on TV, a pastime that would evolve into a lifelong calling.
He attended Marlboro High School, where he participated in both basketball and golf. His natural leadership and charisma stood out early, and his dream of becoming a sportscaster only intensified as he matured. Nantz later enrolled at the University of Houston on a golf scholarship, a decision that proved to be a pivotal detois career. While he wasn’t destined for a professional playing career, his time at the university allowed him to immerse himself in the world of sports and learn the basics of broadcasting.
Early Career and Breakthrough at CBS
After graduating with a degree in radio and television broadcasting, Jim Nantz landed his first job at KHOU-TV in Houston, where he worked as a weekend sportscaster. He soon transitioned to KSL-TV in Salt Lake City, where he covered BYU football games and became known for his confident on-air demeanor.
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In 1985, at the age of 26, Nantz joined CBS Sports, a move that would forever shape his career. Initially, he served as a studio host for the network’s college football and basketball coverage. However, it was his innate ability to provide calm, insightful, and intelligent commentary that quickly elevated him to more prominent roles.
By the late 1980s, Nantz had become a staple at CBS, setting the stage for a legendary broadcasting career. Over the decades, he would become the network’s lead announcer for three of the most significant sports properties in America: The NFL, NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, and The Masters.
Signature Sporting Events
Jim Nantz’s versatility and professionalism enabled him to cover multiple sports with equal mastery, seamlessly. Each of the following events has become closely associated with his voice and presence.
1. The Masters Tournament
Arguably, other event defines Jim Nantz’s career quite like The Masters. Since 1986, he has been the voice behind CBS’s coverage of this prestigious golf tournament. His signature phrase—“Hello, friends”—has become a calming and familiar introduction to golf fans worldwide.
Nantz’s reverence for the traditions of Augusta National and his poetic narration have added a layer of emotion to the tournament, enhancing the viewing experience. His deep understanding of the game and personal relationships with golfers, such as Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Jack Nicklaus, have provided unique insights over the years.
2. NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four
From 1991 to 2023, Nantz served as the lead play-by-play announcer for the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. He has called some of the most dramatic and unforgettable moments in college basketball history, from Christian Laettner’s game-winning shot in 1992 to buzzer-beating thrillers in national championship games.
Nantz’s ability to build tension and deliver impactful commentary in critical moments has made March Madness even more electric for viewers.
3. NFL on CBS
In 2004, Jim Nantz was named the lead play-by-play announcer for the NFL on CBS, paired with analyst Phil Simms and later with former quarterback Tony Romo. His style—professional, concise, and poised—has been the perfect complement to the high-energy world of pro football.
Nantz has covered multiple Super Bowls, most recently Super Bowl LV in 2021, and his calm narration helps maintain clarity amidst the chaos of live sports.
Career Timeline: Jim Nantz’s Milestones
To better understand Jim Nantz’s long and storied career, here’s a table highlighting some of his most significant career milestones:
| Year | Event |
| 1959 | Born in Charlotte, North Carolina |
| 1981 | Graduated from the University of Houston |
| 1985 | Joined CBS Sports |
| 1986 | First coverage of The Masters |
| 1991 | First NCAA Final Four as lead announcer |
| 2004 | Became lead play-by-play announcer for the NFL on CBS |
| 2007 | Called the first Super Bowl (XLI) |
| 2011 | Co-founded the Nantz National Alzheimer’s Center |
| 2023 | Retired from NCAA Tournament coverage after 32 years |
| 2025 | Reached 500th NFL game broadcast on CBS |
A Voice Beyond the Microphone
Author and Storyteller
In 2008, Jim Nantz published his memoir titled Always By My Side, a heartfelt tribute to his late father, who had Alzheimer’s disease. The book details how his father’s presence and advice remained a guiding light throughout his career.
Nantz’s writing style mirrors his broadcasting voice—warm, reflective, and thoughtful. The book provides an intimate look into his life beyond the broadcast booth and highlights the values of family, loyalty, and perseverance.
Wine Connoisseur
Jim Nantz is not only known for his sports coverage but also his foray into the world of wine. In 2009, he co-founded a wine label called The Calling with wine entrepreneur Peter Deutsch. The venture was born out of Nantz’s love for California wines and the desire to create something meaningful beyond sports.
“The Calling” quickly gained a reputation for quality, with its Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir and Chardonnay earning accolades. For Nantz, this brand represents his passion for storytelling, as every bottle reflects a narrative of craftsmanship and dedication.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Jim Nantz currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife, Courtney, and their children. Despite his public persona, he maintains a private and grounded personal life. His first marriage to Ann-Lorraine “Lorrie” Carlsen ended in divorce in 2009, and he later married Courtney Richards in 2012 at the Pebble Beach Golf Links.
A significant part of Nantz’s life is his advocacy for Alzheimer’s research. After witnessing his father’s painful decline due to the disease, Nantz co-founded the Nantz National Alzheimer Center at Houston Methodist Hospital in 2011. The center focuses on advancing research and treatment for Alzheimer’s and dementia-related conditions.
His tireless efforts in raising awareness and finding a cure have contributed to significant progress in Alzheimer’s care, transforming personal tragedy into a mission of hope for others.
Broadcast Style and Influence
Jim Nantz’s broadcast style is often described as elegant, reserved, and articulate. He possesses a rare ability to match the emotional temperature of a moment without overwhelming it, whether it’s the quiet hush of a playoff hole at The Masters or the euphoria of a national championship.
He has mentored countless up-and-coming broadcasters and remains a paragon of professionalism in an industry often dominated by brash personalities. His work has earned him multiple Sports Emmy Awards and the National Sportscaster of the Year honor numerous times.
Why He’s Respected by Fans and Peers Alike
Jim Nantz isn’t just respected for what he does; he’s respected for how he does it. He exudes sincerity, avoids sensationalism, and treats every event with the reverence it deserves. For fans, his voice is the soundtrack to many of their fondest sports memories. For his peers, he represents the gold standard of sports journalism.
Legacy of a Legend
As Jim Nantz slowly steps back from parts of his broadcasting schedule, his legacy remains indelible. The 2023 NCAA Tournament marked his final appearance in college basketball broadcasting, and his farewell message—“Thank you for being my friend”—was met with tears from viewers and admiration from colleagues.
He leaves behind a legacy not only of great broadcasts but of integrity, humility, and excellence. Future generations of broadcasters will study his approach, and fans will remember the moments he helped immortalize with his voice.
Final Thoughts
Jim Nantz is more than just a sportscaster; he is a cultural fixture, a guardian of sports tradition, and a storyteller who has brought meaning to moments that transcend the playing field. His journey from a young boy in New Jersey to the voice of CBS Sports is a testament to talent, preparation, and genuine love for the game.
In an era of fast takes and fleeting fame, Jim Nantz’s career stands out as a beacon of consistency and class. Whether he’s at Augusta, on the football field, or at center court, his voice will echo in the annals of sports history as one of the greatest ever to sit behind a microphone.
