Broadcaster Jim Nantz forced to make late change to Masters plans

Jim Nantz is synonymous with the Masters, and recently declared his intention to commentate on the 100th edition of the major in 2036 – but his preparations have been affected by March Madness

Iconic broadcaster Jim Nantz may have retired from calling the NCAA Tournament – but his love for March Madness remains and is affecting his Masters preparation.

Currently enjoying his second year not calling March Madness games for CBS, Nantz was hoping to enjoy a new travel routine before touching down at Augusta National. The 65-year-old worked his first Masters and NCAA Tournament in 1986, which kickstarted an annual tradition of flying from the Final Four location to Augusta.

CBS has weekend Masters coverage on April 12 and 13. However, Nantz – who recently addressed his potential retirement plans – and others from the network also contribute to ESPN’s early-round, pre-cut coverage on Thursday and Friday.

Nantz is considered by many to be the voice of golf thanks to his storied career announcing the illustrious major. He was also synonymous with March Madness and could enjoy his former schedule again – only as a fan this time around.

On Tuesday, Nantz – speaking during CBS’s Masters preview call – said: “I was prepared for this to be a new approach to Augusta this year. The plan was to get there on Sunday before, then all of a sudden, my University of Houston basketball team went on a roll, and found its way to San Antonio – and I have to be there for that on Saturday. That has brought an abrupt change to the current itinerary.”

Nantz’s interest in March Madness is paramount as his alma mater, Houston, faces Duke in the Final Four on Saturday night. He added: “If we so happen to be fortunate enough to defeat Duke and play Monday night, I will be right back to my old schedule again.”