Jim Nantz’s bond with the University of Houston basketball runs deep, rooted in the glory days of the “Phi Slama Jama” era. He’s long admired the program’s rich history, including legendary players like Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. So, a few days after the Houston Cougars’ narrow loss to the Florida Gators in the Finals, Jim Nantz opened up about his emotional investment in the team. “I am a late arrivee having coming in from San Antonio, heartbroken,” he said ahead of the Masters. “I think I’m gonna be able to handle the defeat. I am not just a fan. My career was channeled through that basketball program.” The Cougars had fallen short by two points, losing 65-63, despite their valiant effort.

Nantz’s connection to the Houston Cougars runs deep, dating back to his time as a golf scholarship recipient at the University of Houston. He became involved with the basketball program almost 50 years ago, serving as a public address announcer and host of the team’s TV show. This experience played a significant role in shaping his broadcasting career, which has included iconic calls in golf and college basketball. He couldn’t hold back tears during Houston’s dramatic Final Four win over Duke, visibly showing his deep emotional connection to the team’s triumph.

Despite the Cougars’ ultimate loss in the championship game, Nantz sent a heartfelt video message to congratulate the team on their remarkable national championship run. With a huge smile, he expressed his pride and admiration for the team, saying, “I’ve never enjoyed following a team more than this season.” Nantz’s love for the program shines through in his words. He believes this is the greatest season in the history of the basketball program, and who can blame him?

For Nantz, this season will be remembered for a lifetime, and he concluded his message with a powerful 7-word statement: “I’m going to celebrate it for ever,” he said, his enthusiasm infectious. Nantz’s message was a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication, and his joy was palpable as he congratulated the players on an unforgettable season.

Nantz’s connection to the Houston Cougars adds another layer to his legacy as a broadcaster. He has often blended personal passion with iconic calls, like in March Madness and The Masters, bringing a human touch to every broadcast. So, of course, this isn’t the only time Nantz has gotten emotional for his favorite game.

A legacy of moments beyond the game

For longtime CBS broadcaster Jim Nantz, one of his most powerful memories came in April 2016, during Arnold Palmer’s final appearance at the Masters. Nantz had the privilege of conducting Palmer’s last interview in Butler Cabin, a moment that was both professional and deeply personal. “I got to conduct that in Butler Cabin in April of 2016. He passed away in September of that year,” Nantz shared. Over the years, Nantz and Palmer had built a true friendship grounded in their shared love for golf. The weight of the moment was evident as they spent considerable time together, with the interview stretching from five minutes to nearly an hour.

The most poignant moment for Nantz, however, came after the interview. He and Alistair Johnston helped Palmer, who was unable to walk on his own, to his car, which drove him down Magnolia Lane for the last time. “We helped Arnie get into the car, Alley drove him away, and I stood there, waved, and realized this is it. This is the last time that Arnie’s ever going to be on the grounds of Augusta,” Nantz recalled. As he stood there, waving goodbye, the moment became etched in his heart.

It’s a quiet, reverent memory that showcases the deep bond between two friends and the legacy of a golf legend. For Nantz, it’s not just a story but a privilege to have shared that final chapter with Palmer beneath the Georgia pines.