Jim Nantz has faced pressure-filled assignments as a broadcaster that few in sports media could imagine. Yet, none of these high-stakes moments compare to the nervousness he experiences as a fan, watching his Houston Cougars take to the grandest stage of all. In the upcoming National Championship game against the Florida Gators, Nantz acknowledges this pivotal moment in a video preview aired during the CBS pregame show on Monday.
“I’m hopelessly in love with my alma mater,” Nantz expressed. “This basketball program means everything to me. It brings my life full circle. I remember as a kid, sitting courtside while being the public address announcer for Phi Slama Jama and hosting the Guy Lewis television show. I get more nervous watching the games than I ever did calling them. Having called 354 NCAA Tournament games and 96 Final Four games, all of those experiences were far easier than sitting in the stands, living possession by possession with my Houston Cougars.”
Jim Nantz: “I’m hopelessly in love with my alma mater… I called 354 NCAA Tournament games, 96 Final Four games. All of those were far easier than sitting in the stands and living possession by possession with my Houston Cougars.” 🏀🎙️pic.twitter.com/lOPfcw7fFg
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 7, 2025
As Nantz pointed out, the early stages of his illustrious career were shaped during his time at the University of Houston and as an anchor and sportscaster for KHOU 11 in Houston. His affection for the university is reciprocated by Kelvin Sampson and the Houston basketball team; Nantz was even included in the team’s photo after their Elite Eight victory over Tennessee in the NCAA Tournament.
While others in his position might be focused on his upcoming assignment to call the Masters on CBS later this week, marking his 40th time at the prestigious event, his heart lies firmly with the Cougars. Having witnessed Houston fall short in the 1983 and 1984 National Championships, Nantz hopes this time his unwavering support will lead to a much happier conclusion.
