“Jim Nantz is number one,” Amanda Balionis said just last month, making it clear why she holds him in such high esteem. She praises not just his exceptional talent but also his kindness and dedication to those around him. “His memory knows no bounds; he recalls things in the moment in the most accurate way from 20 years ago that will put your jaw on the floor,” she added, highlighting his remarkable ability to bring history to life in the present moment. What really sets Nantz apart, according to Balionis, is how he carries himself as a person.
“He takes so much time to support and be an advocate for the people around him, and that’s what I want to be remembered for, too,” she said, revealing her admiration for his character. With a career spanning decades, Nantz has solidified his position as one of the all-time greats in sports commentary. Now, after an outing together in Georgia, Balionis has shared her thoughts on Nantz once again, and they are not much different.
Amanda was part of an All-Star crew for CBS Sports’ weekend broadcast, delivering several interviews with top competitors, but it was her time with Nantz that left a lasting impression. Describing it as a highlight, she captioned the moment “One more moment for this unforgettable Masters,” clearly touched by the experience.
With Nantz set to continue working the Masters for 10 more years following this iteration and then retire, Balionis felt privileged to have shared some time with the iconic voice behind so many memorable golf moments. As she wrapped up her experience, she expressed her gratitude, saying, “2025 has been all about gratitude, and last week was no exception. So grateful for these experiences, the people I get to learn from and work with, and for those who somehow make the best job in the world even better. Until next year, Augusta!”
Other than this, one more reason Balionis enjoyed her time at Augusta has to be the interview she had with McIlroy, where she took a slight dig at him.
Amanda Balionis digs up nightmares for Rory McIlroy at the Masters
Rory McIlroy won the 2025 Masters, and well, his journey to the top hasn’t been without its challenges. After a shaky start to the tournament, McIlroy showed remarkable resilience, firing consecutive rounds of 66 to take the lead. But with Bryson DeChambeau hot on his heels, McIlroy knew he couldn’t afford to let his focus waver.
In a poignant moment with Amanda Balionis on CBS Sports, McIlroy was reminded of his heartbreaking defeat at the hands of DeChambeau at the 2024 US Open. Balionis didn’t mince words, bringing up the painful memory and asking McIlroy how satisfying it would be to have a rematch. McIlroy’s response was characteristically measured, focusing on maintaining his composure rather than framing it as a personal duel. “I think the big thing is not to make it a rematch,” he said. “Stay in my own little world… and just stay firm and just stay in my own little world.”
With a career Grand Slam, McIlroy has now joined the likes of Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods in the exclusive club of golfers who have won all four majors. One thing is certain, though—McIlroy’s response to Balionis’ question shows he’s aware of the stakes and is determined to rise to the occasion.
The post Amanda Balionis ‘Grateful’ to Jim Nantz & More as She Exits Augusta National on an Emotional Note appeared first on EssentiallySports.