Jim Nantz’s Augusta National Plans Derailed as Family Time Takes Priority for the Masters Broadcaster

It’s that time of the year again – the Masters is just around the corner, and golf fans are eagerly awaiting the iconic tournament. In January, the veteran broadcaster, Jim Nantz hit a major milestone, calling his 500th NFL game during the AFC wild-card clash between the Bills and Broncos – a reflection of his dedication and legendary career. But, broadcasters need a breather too once in a while.

So, this year’s Masters plans have taken a backseat to a more important priority – his family. It’s no surprise. Last February, Nantz announced his retirement from college basketball broadcasting to spend more quality time with his wife, Courtney Richards, and their children. This move gave him the freedom to dive into family game days. This year, as it turns out, Nantz’s alma mater, the Houston Cougars, has qualified for the Final Four, and he’s putting his Masters plans on hold to support his team.

“You know, this is our seventh Final Four, and Tennessee has a pretty big basketball tradition,” Nantz shared with Colt Knost and Drew Stoltz on SiriusXM PGA TOUR Radio. “Both their men’s and women’s programs have strong histories, of course, the Pat Summitt days on the women’s side—but they’ve never been to a men’s Final Four.” Nantz’s excitement and pride in his team are palpable, and it’s clear that he’s not going to miss this opportunity to cheer them on.

As Nantz prepares to take in the Final Four action, he’s also having to adjust his Masters plans. “So I’m taking it all in,” he said. “It’s just kind of rerouted some of my travel plans to Augusta. But I’m taking my son—my boy Jamison, AKA Jamo—and we’re going to turn on the afterburners.” Nantz’s love for his family is evident, and it’s wonderful to see him prioritize making memories with his son.

He even joked about how his son will have to stay up late to watch the game, saying “My boy’s not used to staying up that late, but he will on Saturday night, that’s for sure.” With the Final Four and the Masters on the horizon, Nantz is in for an exciting few weeks, and we can’t wait to see how it all unfolds. But, do you know about the little routine Nantz does before every Masters game? Well, if not we’re here to tell you exactly that.

Starting Masters is a “moment of prayer and introspection” for Jim Nantz

Sports are often steeped in superstition and ritual. Formula One driver Lando Norris has a quirky pre-race ritual that always gets people talking – he calls his parents before every race! Not just for athletes, but fans too believe their actions can influence the outcome. Jim Nantz is no different. For him, the voice of the Masters for over four decades, the tournament is more than just a broadcast – it’s a spiritual experience. Every year, on the Wednesday before the tournament begins, Nantz makes a pilgrimage to Amen Corner, a sacred spot at Augusta National. As he walks down to the creek fronting the green, crosses the bridge, and finds a quiet spot to reflect, Nantz says a prayer of thanks for the opportunity to be there. “It’s a moment of prayer and introspection, and I just give thanks for the gift of being here,” he shared. “I’ve never taken it for granted that I have a chance to do exactly what I wanted to do as a young boy.”

Nantz’s tradition has been a constant for him over the years, and he hopes to continue it for many more. In fact, he’s already planned his “scheduled retirement” for 2036, which would coincide with his 51st Masters and the 100th edition of the tournament. While he acknowledges that a lot of things need to fall into place for that to happen, Nantz is hopeful that he’ll be able to walk out of the green television tower on April 14, 2036. What do you think of his decision(s)? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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