As the Houston Cougars gear up for a monumental clash against the Duke Blue Devils in the Final Four at the Alamodome in San Antonio, they’re not just supported by their loyal fans but also by a host of celebrity enthusiasts who proudly wear their team colors. Among the most notable is Jim Nantz, the legendary broadcaster and University of Houston alumnus, who has returned to his roots as a fervent supporter of the Cougars.
On April 5, 2025, Nantz will don his red attire and cheer on his alma mater as they attempt to secure a spot in the national championship game for the first time since 1984. This matchup against Duke is highly anticipated, especially considering the Blue Devils' recent form, which has seen them play some of their best basketball of late.
Nantz, who graduated from the University of Houston in 1981, expressed his excitement about the game during a recent appearance on "The Dan Patrick Show." "I'm so stoked about this weekend. We all have that little boy inside us. That fan that still lives and has a place in your heart (with) what sports used to feel like. I have it with all things the University of Houston, football, basketball, whatever it might be," he said. His passion for the Cougars is palpable, and he’s eager to support them from the stands.
In addition to Nantz, several other Houston celebrities have been spotted cheering for the Cougars. Lizzo, the Grammy-winning singer, performed a concert at Irving Plaza in New York City on March 16, 2025, and has expressed her support for the team. Dennis Quaid, the acclaimed actor, was seen attending the Happy Face | Tastemaker Screening in New York on March 18, 2025, and has also been vocal about his admiration for the Cougars.
Rapper Paul Wall brought his energy to the Toyota Center on March 23, 2025, during a game between the Houston Rockets and the Denver Nuggets, engaging with the crowd and showing his love for Houston sports. His presence, along with other local celebrities, highlights the vibrant support system that the Cougars have as they make their run in the NCAA Tournament.
For Nantz, this isn’t just about being a fan; it’s about a lifelong connection to the University of Houston. His journey in broadcasting began during his college days when he was introduced to the Cougars' then-head coach, Guy Lewis, by his golf coach, Dave Williams. This pivotal moment led to him hosting Lewis' weekly radio show, which ultimately paved the way for his illustrious career in sports broadcasting.
Reflecting on his time at the university, Nantz shared, "My whole career really was channeled being on the golf team and the golf coach introducing me to Guy Lewis, the Hall of Fame coach for Houston, who said, 'Young man I'd like you to be our public address announcer at our home basketball games.'" This formative experience has kept him connected to the Cougars, and he now feels a deep sense of pride as they compete on such a grand stage.
As the Cougars prepare for their Final Four showdown, Nantz’s enthusiasm is mirrored by the team’s performance on the court. They recently secured a thrilling victory over the No. 2 seed Tennessee in the Elite Eight, a game that saw Nantz in attendance, celebrating alongside the team and fans. After the game, he even joined the Cougars for a celebratory photo on the court, a testament to his unwavering support.
With the stakes higher than ever, the Cougars are looking to capitalize on their momentum and deliver a performance that honors their storied history. Nantz believes that this team represents a throwback to the essence of college basketball, and he hopes that fans recognize the significance of their journey. "I hope when we get into (Final Four) week, people look at this (Houston) team as a throwback to what college basketball used to be," he expressed.
As the clock ticks down to game time, the excitement builds not just for the players but for fans like Nantz and countless others who have followed the Cougars through thick and thin. The Alamodome is expected to be a sea of red, with supporters rallying behind their team as they take on one of college basketball's powerhouses.
In a city known for its rich sports culture, the Cougars’ run in the tournament has united fans from all walks of life, including celebrities who proudly represent Houston. As they face off against Duke, the Cougars will not only be competing for a title but also for the pride of their city and the legacy of their program.
With the final countdown to tip-off approaching, the atmosphere is electric. Will the Cougars rise to the occasion and secure their place in history? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: Jim Nantz and the rest of Houston will be cheering them on every step of the way.
