Notah Begay III seeks to demonstrate his abilities beyond being known as the “Tiger guy” by auditioning for NBC’s golf analyst position.
Notah Begay III cannot escape his connection to Tiger Woods, but he doesn’t attempt to either. During a recent discussion about his career of over a decade at NBC, he voluntarily raised this issue.
At first, many assumed that I was only hired as the so-called “Tiger guy,” understandably. But fortunately, I believe that perception has changed somewhat because should he retire in the near future and I am still solely viewed as his go-to commentator, it would likely lead to my dismissal from this position.”
Begay, who has served as a “walker” for NBC’s golf coverage and played college golf at Stanford with Woods, achieved four wins on the PGA Tour in 1999-2000. Despite facing setbacks due to injury and slumps over the following decade, he joined NBC in 2012. While making numerous attempts at analysis throughout his time there thus far, this weekend marks Begay’s first opportunity to hold sole responsibility as an analyst during one full tournament – the Valspar Championship – after twelve years of experience within commentary and analysis.
“When we spoke two days prior to the start of play,” he expressed, “I feel both excitement and anxiety. Johnny Miller made it seem effortless with his powerful experience-driven perspective while Paul Azinger’s enthusiastic approach showcased his enduring passion for golf.”
Begay is mindful that he’s in a tryout phase. After Azinger left, NBC aims to evaluate multiple possible commentators so they can secure the position permanently later this year. Kevin Kisner, Brandel Chamblee and Luke Donald are just some of the contenders for the vacant spot—formidable competitors with diverse talents one must overcome in order to score. (Jim “Bones” Mackay served as commentator during Mexico Open when Justin Thomas was absent but isn’t interested enough to do it full-time.) Begay knows there’s an extra layer of stress on him because of it all.
He expressed that there is a certain level of pressure involved, but this is standard for professional athletes. He has faced pressure throughout his career and continues to do so now. The type of pressure he faces currently involves being analyzed and judged, which he believes is acceptable. Mistakes should be recognized as they occur because it prepares individuals for significant moments in the future.
What if he tries for the role, but doesn’t succeed and goes back to being a walker? Would this cause him any resentment? Despite discussing it with him, he never wavered from his “team player” attitude.
Having played with Tiger Woods during their time at Stanford University, Begay shares a special bond with the 15-time major champion. However, he is determined to demonstrate his expertise as a golf analyst by delivering outstanding commentary throughout the Valspar Championship and not being just recognized as “Tiger’s guy”.
He stated that losing was something you despised. The reason why one reaches the PGA Tour is due to a lack of tolerance towards loss. However, he mentioned how decisions concerning NBC are determined in their best interest and thus if any verdicts were made, he would back it completely without question. If not chosen for the position at hand, his responsibility shifts toward supporting whomever does get selected and enabling them to perform optimally.
Tommy Roy, the experienced lead producer of NBC’s golf coverage, alongside two colleagues who guided Begay in developing as a TV personality were commended by him. During his early career days when he had to interview players, it was daunting for Begay due to its unnaturalness and discomfort conversing with peers on that level. He confessed experiencing anxiety more than once during such occasions until Roger Maltbie came along offering helpful advice; jotting down questions beforehand served as a support system through critical moments. Molly Solomon aided him regarding subtle analysis skills and even demonstrated ways how properly sitting in chairs improves energy projection while exhibiting self-assurance.
With a younger and more contemporary vibe, Begay is thrilled about the “reboot” happening at NBC. He eagerly discusses his eagerness to bring diversity to the role as he has Navajo, San Felipe Pueblo, and Isleta Pueblo roots – a demographic that remains underrepresented in professional golf except for him. It’s worth noting that his name “Notah,” meaning ‘almost there’ seems too topical when it comes to pursuing an analyst job.
He expressed that being a positive representation of his Native American community is extremely significant to him. Having secured this job with the NBC team during such a crucial moment serves as an immense stride towards progress. It demonstrates to other young Indigenous individuals in high school or college aspiring for careers in broadcasting, journalism or entertainment that achieving their goals is attainable.
Begay was asked to move beyond his usual humble stance and identify the unique qualities he would bring to a broadcast. In response, he pointed out that his deep involvement in all aspects of golf – including organizing national tournaments for junior players with qualifying events across the country -, strong connections with younger players, and continued competitiveness on PGA Tour Champions make him an ideal choice. Begay maintains a critical respect for the sport through these close relationships which even led to a player seeking advice from him at The Players (although he wouldn’t reveal who it was!). He jokingly promised full credit if that same player made it onto Valspar’s leaderboard as well!
Begay faces a challenging task of securing the job as Kisner and Donald have already made several appearances at the analyst desk, Chamblee is getting his second chance at Houston Open, whereas Begay’s only scheduled tournament is Valspar. Nevertheless, he aims to impress everyone with his performance and leave an impact on decision-makers. If he succeeds in doing so, it can increase his recognition among golf enthusiasts and TV viewers beyond what he perceives currently ideal for him.
He quipped, “My level of fame is just right – it grants me access to any event or performance nationwide, yet enables me to stroll through airports incognito.”
