The CBS Sports broadcast of the Memorial Tournament was struck by tragedy Saturday as commentator Jim Nantz announced the death of production assistant Bryce Adair. The 31-year-old died from injuries sustained in a single-car accident on Wednesday night while in Ohio for the tournament.
Nantz delivered an emotional tribute on the air, informing viewers of the loss within the broadcast team. “Trust me when I tell you that in over 40 years I have never seen our crew of 250 people coming to a broadcast like this one carrying as much grief as they are now,” Nantz said.
He continued, officially announcing the passing of his colleague. “This morning, an incredibly bright, charismatic teammate – 31-year-old Bryce Adair – passed away from injuries suffered Wednesday night in a car accident while here working the Memorial Tournament.”
Adair joined CBS in 2017 and was described as a universally loved member of the team who won an Emmy for his work on a Super Bowl broadcast. “Everyone loved him. Every day Bryce would greet you with a warm smile and a caring, compassionate spirit. He did many things for us. He won an Emmy for our Super Bowl broadcast,” Nantz shared with the audience.
In his heartfelt message, Nantz also spoke directly to Adair’s family. “I want to say to his mother, Michelle, thank you for sharing your remarkable son with us. We loved him and he will never be forgotten.”
Reporter Tracy Wolfson also paid tribute on social media, remembering Adair for his “infectious smile” and “kind soul.” A GoFundMe page, initially set up to assist with medical expenses, had raised over $67,000 at the time of the announcement.
