“Jim Nantz is number one,” Amanda Balionis said, and it’s clear why she’s a huge fan. After the 2025 Masters, Balionis shared a photo with Nantz on Instagram, captioning it “One more moment for this unforgettable Masters.” For her, the moment spent with Nantz was more memorable than witnessing Rory McIlroy claim his first green jacket. Balionis felt privileged to have shared time with the iconic voice behind so many golf moments, expressing gratitude for the experience and the people she works with.
What sets Nantz apart, according to Balionis, is his exceptional talent and kindness. She marveled at his incredible memory, recalling details from 20 years ago with ease. Balionis also admired Nantz’s character, saying she wants to be remembered for her dedication to others, just like him.
Well, it’s not only Balionis who thinks like that, popular NFL Analyst Jay Feely also shares the same sentiments. Feely took to X to express his enthusiasm as he bid farewell to his broadcasting career, thanking his colleagues at CBS Sports after announcing his decision to run for public office.
Feely’s decision to leave broadcasting comes after announcing his candidacy for the United States House of Representatives in Arizona’s fifth congressional district for the 2026 midterm election. He cited a sense of civil service and a desire to serve without self-interest as his motivation for entering politics, saying, “I think that I feel God’s calling pressing me into service, and that’s what I really believe it is, is the civil service.”
“I’m so grateful for my 10 years at CBS Sports. They took a chance on a kicker and allowed me to be in the booth calling NFL games (only the 2nd K ever to do that after the legendary Pat Summerall). I enjoyed every minute and I will miss the people I worked with the most.” Feely’s post was filled with appreciation for his colleagues, especially Jim Nantz. “Jim Nantz is simply the best, he couldn’t have been nicer to me from day 1”, he wrote. Feely also took time to acknowledge his other collegues and further wrote, “@TMacPhils I couldn’t ask for a better more unselfish partner Spero we had the funniest moments on air @bethmowins it was an honor to do your 1st NFL game @benholdenpxp thank you for being a great friend and my 1st partner @tonyromo I will miss our range sessions and game strategy talks Ross Molloy thank you for being a great friend, a mentor and my golf partner.”
Jim Nantz is simply the best, he couldn’t have been nicer to me from day 1@TMacPhils I couldn’t ask for a better more unselfish partner
Spero we had the funniest moments on air@bethmowins it was an honor to do your 1st NFL game @benholdenpxp thank you for being a great…
— Jay Feely (@jayfeely) April 22, 2025
But what is it about Nantz that has every broadcaster out there in a chokehold? Well, quite a lot!
Why Jim Nantz is so loved in the sports world
Jim Nantz is a beloved figure in the sports world due to his exceptional broadcasting skills, charming personality, and dedication to his craft. He’s a masterful storyteller, known for crafting compelling narratives that draw viewers in and make them feel invested in the game. His warm and authoritative voice is instantly recognizable, with a calming effect on audiences. Nantz is meticulous in his preparation, observant of player stats, team histories, and background stories to bring depth and context to his broadcasts. He has a keen sense of when to step up his commentary and deliver memorable lines, as seen in iconic moments like Tiger Woods’ first Masters win in 1997.
Nantz’s genuine passion and love for sports shine through in his broadcasts, whether it’s the Masters, March Madness, or the NFL. His excitement is palpable, and his professionalism and work ethic have earned him the respect of his peers and audiences alike. Notable colleagues and athletes have praised Nantz’s exceptional skills, including Robert Kraft, who praises his resonant voice, Phil Simms, who notes his ability to “look at a game faster than anybody,” and Mike Krzyzewski, who commends his exquisite preparation and storytelling ability. Overall, Nantz’s unique blend of skill, passion, and dedication has made him a beloved figure in the sports world.
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