NBC Golf has recently made a surprising hire in preparation for the upcoming ’24 PGA Tour season. This announcement comes just weeks after longtime analyst Paul Azinger departed from the network. The new addition to NBC’s broadcast booth is none other than Kevin Kisner, who will be taking on the role of lead analyst for the first two marquee broadcasts of the 2024 season – the Sentry Tournament of Champions and the WM Phoenix Open. While this hiring is currently being referred to as a tryout, it has generated significant buzz within the golf community.
Kevin Kisner, known for his forthright and fearless thoughts and opinions on the game, has been praised by NBC Golf lead producer Tommy Roy. Roy believes that Kisner’s style will resonate well with viewers at home and is excited to have him join the NBC Sports broadcast team for these initial events.
Kisner, a popular figure in golf media, represents an interesting choice at the top of NBC Golf’s lineup. Despite falling outside the top 200 players in the FedEx Cup standings in 2023, Kisner remains a beloved figure among players and fans alike. The four-time Tour winner has an unapologetic voice and witty personality that is sure to make an impact on the broadcasts. At 39 years old, Kisner still holds his PGA Tour card and could potentially continue competing while also pursuing a career in broadcasting.
When asked about the opportunity with NBC Sports, Kisner expressed his excitement and eagerness to provide commentary on the game of golf from a different perspective.
As of now, it is unclear if NBC plans to hire a lead analyst before the start of the 2024 season. However, sources within the network have indicated that they do intend to hire a full-time candidate in the future. It remains to be seen if Kisner will be considered for such a role, given his lack of previous TV experience. Alternatively, NBC may be auditioning Kisner for a position as an on-course reporter, similar to former player-turned-broadcasters Smylie Kaufman and Colt Knost.
The addition of Kisner to NBC’s golf coverage comes at a crucial time for the network and its partnership with the PGA Tour. The Tour currently faces challenges posed by LIV Golf, which could potentially affect the value of media rights agreements and ratings for networks like NBC and CBS. While one new voice may not significantly impact viewer loyalty, Kisner brings a fresh energy to a broadcast that has been criticized for being dry and over-commercialized. This could be a positive step towards enhancing the overall viewer experience.
It is worth noting that NBC’s decision to part ways with Paul Azinger after five years as lead analyst was not entirely surprising. Azinger often faced criticism for his reliance on folksy, instinct-driven analysis, which sometimes contradicted readily available facts. Furthermore, his tendency to criticize “golf media” from the booth raised eyebrows considering his own position as a prominent media voice in the sport.
Kisner’s tryout as lead analyst is the latest in a series of changes for NBC’s golf coverage. The network bid farewell to longtime voices Gary Koch and Roger Maltbie in the past year and welcomed new additions like Smylie Kaufman and Curt Byrum. NBC’s nine-year media rights agreement with the PGA Tour runs through the end of the decade and involves substantial financial commitments. The network has positioned itself as a significant partner for the Tour, not only in broadcasting events but also in securing rights to prestigious tournaments like the U.S. Open and Open Championship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kevin Kisner?
Kevin Kisner is a professional golfer known for his wit, forthright opinions, and entertaining quotes. He has won four tournaments on the PGA Tour and remains a well-liked figure within the golf community.
What events will Kevin Kisner be analyzing for NBC Golf?
Kevin Kisner will be serving as the lead analyst for the Sentry Tournament of Champions and the WM Phoenix Open, which are two marquee events to kick off the 2024 PGA Tour season.
Is Kevin Kisner a full-time analyst for NBC Golf?
At the moment, Kevin Kisner’s role as lead analyst is being considered a tryout. It is unclear if he will be offered a full-time position in the future, but NBC does have plans to hire a permanent lead analyst.
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