Jim Nantz’s rise to sports broadcasting legend at CBS
HOUSTON (BVM) –There are not too many more recognizable faces in sports media than CBS sportscaster Jim Nantz. Whether it is an afternoon NFL game, the middle of the NCAA March Madness tournament or a big PGA event, Nantz enters your living room and keeps you entertained for a few hours.
But before the 63-year-old was a household name and before you knew his “Hello friends” line, Nantz had a long path to get to where he is today.
"Hello, Friends. It's a beautiful day in Pinehurst."
We'll have more with Jim Nantz – his past with Payne, his thoughts on Pinehurst, and much more – throughout the week. pic.twitter.com/PZ1btK3AiN
— Pinehurst Resort (@PinehurstResort) August 16, 2021
Nantz before fame
Nantz grew up in New Orleans and would later attend the University of Houston. While pursuing his degree, he was also a member of the golf team.
After graduating, Nantz began his career in the Houston area before moving to Salt Lake City where he called BYU football games. But it was a short stint in Utah. After three years there, Nantz was brought on to the CBS Sports team.
CBS Sports career
Nantz joined CBS in 1985 when he began as a studio host for both college basketball and football. Within a couple of years there, they moved him to the radio booth where he would call NFL games.
In 1989, Nantz would begin to receive the coveted positions that he still has today. That year he became the voice of the Masters and he has done it ever since. In 1991, he called his first Final Four game and has done that every year since as well.
In 2004, Nantz became the face of CBS’ football coverage, moving to their No. 1 team, paired with Phil Simms. In 2017, CBS replaced Simms with Tony Romo, creating one of the most insightful and entertaining commentary booths in the NFL.
Tony Romo referenced his infamous playoff mistake and Jim Nantz didn't pick up on it, so Romo said it again lol pic.twitter.com/TiiYN7VDT7
— Jackson Frank (@jackfrank_jjf) January 30, 2022
Nantz outside of the booth
Nantz also has his own line at Vineyard Vines, an American clothing retailer. From polos to pants to quarter-zips, there is a whole collection to choose from.
With his endorsements combined with his annual salary from CBS, Nantz has a net worth of $15 million according to Nova Scotia Today.