NBC has enlisted Golf Channel analyst Brandel Chamblee to bolster its main commentary team for the upcoming U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 in June. This move comes as NBC seeks a replacement for Paul Azinger, whose contract wasn’t renewed last year.
For this year’s tournament, NBC will employ a unique approach, introducing a four-man team and implementing an “odd/even system” for hole assignments. Mike Tirico and Brad Faxon will handle the odd-numbered holes during prime viewing hours, while Chamblee joins play-by-play voice Dan Hicks on the even-numbered ones.
This new strategy aims to provide more context and engagement between analysts and on-course reporters, enhancing the viewer experience. Additionally, seasoned on-course reporter Jim “Bones” Mackay returns, following his split with Justin Thomas before the Masters, alongside Roger Maltbie and Gary Koch in their respective roles.