As the men's NCAA Tournament kicks off, fans may notice the absence of the familiar voice of Jim Nantz, renowned for his role in one of college sports' most beloved events.
Nantz took on the lead role in CBS' coverage of the NCAA Tournament in 1991, becoming the primary play-by-play commentator for every Final Four since. However, this year, viewers will primarily encounter Nantz during commercial breaks, particularly in his appearances in Capital One ads, rather than courtside alongside Bill Raftery and Grant Hill.
Jim Nantz's Decision
In 2023, Nantz announced that the NCAA Tournament would mark his final appearance, opting to prioritize his family and other broadcasting commitments. It's important to note that Nantz hasn't retired from broadcasting entirely; he continues to cover The Masters and leads CBS' NFL coverage with Tony Romo, including their recent stint in the booth for Super Bowl 58 in February.
"I'm not retiring," clarified Nantz during the 2023 Final Four. "I still have about 40 weeks a year dedicated to NFL coverage, the Super Bowl, and golf for another dozen years or so."
Nantz emphasized his enduring commitment to NFL and golf broadcasting, acknowledging that adjustments were necessary. "Something had to go, though," he remarked in an interview with the Associated Press before last year's Final Four.
Replacement Announcers
Filling in for Nantz as the lead play-by-play announcer for CBS is Ian Eagle. He will handle all rounds, including the 2024 Final Four, alongside Raftery and Hill, with Tracy Wolfson continuing her role as the lead sideline reporter. The team will be stationed in New York to cover the first-round action, including a game featuring the defending champion Connecticut Huskies.
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