Jim Mackay – NBC Veteran Announcer Celebrates 15 Years with Network
Jim “Bones” Mackay has become a familiar voice for golf fans across America. After a legendary 25-year run as Phil Mickelson’s caddie, Mackay joined NBC Sports in 2017 as an on-course reporter for PGA TOUR coverage. His insightful commentary and deep understanding of the game quickly established him as one of the most respected broadcasters in golf television.
Though Mackay briefly returned to caddying in recent years, including a stint with Justin Thomas, he’s now heading back to broadcasting full-time with NBC and Golf Channel. His return to the airwaves comes as welcome news to viewers who appreciated his unique perspective that blends a caddie’s strategic insight with clear, concise delivery.
The veteran’s career has come full circle in many ways. From carrying bags at the Sony Open in Hawaii as a substitute caddie in 2018 to now being a permanent fixture in NBC’s golf coverage, Mackay brings unparalleled course knowledge to living rooms nationwide. His ability to translate complex on-course situations into digestible analysis makes him an invaluable asset to NBC’s broadcast team.
Contents
Early Life and Career
Jim “Bones” Mackay’s journey in golf began well before he became a household name. His progression from newcomer to respected caddie represents one of the most significant career paths in professional golf.
Entry Into Caddying
Mackay’s caddying career took off in the late 1980s when he began working for several professional golfers on the PGA Tour. The Ohio native got his start with players like Larry Mize and Scott Simpson before his career-defining partnership began.
His nickname “Bones” came from his lanky frame, a moniker that would become synonymous with elite caddying. During these formative years, Mackay learned the nuances of reading greens, calculating yardages, and providing the psychological support that top players need.
Before becoming a caddie, Mackay attended Columbus College (now Columbus State University) where he played on the golf team. This playing background gave him valuable insights into the game that would serve him well in his future role.
Partnership with Phil Mickelson
In 1992, Mackay joined forces with Phil Mickelson, forming what would become one of the longest-running partnerships in golf history. Their 25-year collaboration yielded remarkable success on the PGA Tour.
Together, they captured 41 PGA Tour victories, including five major championships:
| Major Championship | Year(s) |
|---|---|
| Masters | 2004, 2006, 2010 |
| PGA Championship | 2005 |
| Open Championship | 2013 |
Mackay wasn’t just carrying Mickelson’s bag. He served as strategist, confidant, and occasionally the voice of reason during Mickelson’s aggressive play. Their partnership became known for detailed preparation and trust.
The pair’s communication style became legendary, with their pre-shot discussions often caught on microphones, giving fans insight into their strategic approach to each shot.
Transition to Broadcasting
Jim “Bones” Mackay made a significant career shift from being one of golf’s most recognizable caddies to becoming a respected voice in golf broadcasting. His insider knowledge and articulate commentary quickly established him as a valuable addition to golf coverage.
Joining NBC Sports
Mackay began his broadcasting journey with NBC Sports in 2017 after parting ways with Phil Mickelson following a legendary 25-year partnership on the PGA Tour. The transition came as a surprise to many golf fans, but Mackay joined NBC Sports as part of their tournament coverage team.
His extensive experience on golf courses around the world proved invaluable for his new role. Having been inside the ropes for decades, Mackay brought unique insights that few broadcasters could match.
The move represented a major shift in his career but allowed him to remain connected to the sport he loved. His deep relationships with players and caddies gave him access to perspectives that enhanced broadcast quality.
Role as an On-Course Reporter
As an on-course reporter, Mackay leveraged his decades of experience to provide viewers with expert analysis from ground level. His primary function involved walking the course during tournaments and offering real-time insights about playing conditions, strategic decisions, and player mindsets.
Mackay’s credibility as Phil Mickelson’s former caddie gave weight to his observations. He could explain caddie-player conversations and decision-making processes with authenticity that resonated with viewers.
In February 2024, Mackay served as NBC’s lead analyst for coverage of the Mexico Open at Vidanta, demonstrating his versatility beyond on-course reporting. This expanded role showed NBC’s growing confidence in his broadcasting abilities.
Contributions to Golf Channel
Mackay’s broadcasting work extends to Golf Channel, where he’s become an integral part of their coverage team. His appearances on Golf Channel programs have helped viewers understand the nuances of professional golf from a unique perspective.
In early 2024, news broke that Mackay would be returning to full-time TV duties with NBC/Golf Channel. This transition back to broadcasting followed a period where he had returned to caddying for Justin Thomas.
Mackay has become part of NBC’s rotation of lead analysts for golf coverage after the network moved on from Paul Azinger. His expanded role demonstrates the network’s confidence in his abilities as a broadcaster.
Notable Events Covered
Jim “Bones” Mackay has established himself as one of golf’s premier on-course reporters for NBC Sports, covering some of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments. His expertise and insights have enhanced broadcasts of major championships and elite tournaments throughout the golfing calendar.
The Masters Coverage
Mackay’s work at Augusta National has become a hallmark of NBC’s golf coverage. He serves as an on-course reporter for the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, bringing viewers closer to the action with his knowledgeable commentary.
His familiarity with Augusta’s notoriously challenging course stems from decades of experience, first as Phil Mickelson’s caddie and now as a broadcaster. Mackay knows every subtle break on those lightning-fast greens.
During Masters week, Mackay provides viewers with strategic insights that only someone who has walked those fairways hundreds of times could offer. His ability to anticipate players’ decision-making adds tremendous value to the broadcast.
His commentary often focuses on the critical stretches like Amen Corner where championships are won and lost.
U.S. Open and The Open Championship
Mackay’s coverage of America’s national championship and golf’s oldest major shows his versatility across different course styles. At the U.S. Open, he navigates the typically brutal setups with commentary that explains why players make certain choices under extreme pressure.
For The Open Championship, “Bones” excels at describing the unique challenges of links golf. His explanations of how wind affects ball flight and how players must adapt their ground game are particularly insightful.
One of Mackay’s strengths is contextualizing the historical significance of moments as they unfold during these championships.
| Major | Years Covered | Notable Broadcasts |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Open | 2017-Present | Woodland’s 2019 victory, Rahm’s 2021 breakthrough |
| The Open | 2017-Present | Morikawa’s debut win, Smith’s triumph at St Andrews |
PGA Championship and FedEx Cup Playoff
Mackay’s coverage of the PGA Championship demonstrates his deep knowledge of how course setups differ between majors. His insights during recent PGAs at Southern Hills and Kiawah Island provided viewers with expert analysis of how players navigated these demanding layouts.
During the FedEx Cup Playoffs, Mackay excels at explaining the points system and the shifting strategies players employ throughout the three-tournament series.
His commentary during tense playoff moments at the Tour Championship has become particularly valuable, as he breaks down the enormous financial implications of each shot when the $18 million prize is on the line.
Mackay’s ability to remain composed while describing high-pressure situations makes his playoff coverage especially compelling. Viewers benefit from his explanations of how players manage their emotions when competing for golf’s largest prize pools.
Relationship with Golfers
Jim “Bones” Mackay has developed deep connections with several professional golfers throughout his career. His insights and relationships have shaped both his work as a caddie and his commentary style for NBC.
Insights on Top Players
Mackay’s years on tour have given him unique perspectives on the world’s best golfers. Having spent 25 years alongside Phil Mickelson, he witnessed countless major championships up close.
His commentary often reveals insider knowledge about players’ tendencies under pressure. Viewers benefit from his observations about how golfers handle specific course conditions or challenging moments.
“I’ve always been fascinated by how the great players process information,” Mackay has noted during broadcasts. His analysis frequently includes details about player strategy that casual observers might miss.
When covering major championships, Mackay brings valuable context about competitors’ relationships with various courses. This intimate knowledge has made him a respected voice in golf broadcasting.
Working with Justin Thomas
Mackay’s partnership with Justin Thomas began in September 2021 after leaving his broadcasting role at NBC. Their collaboration produced immediate results, including a victory at the 2022 PGA Championship.
The pair worked together for nearly three seasons before recently parting ways. During their time together, Thomas relied heavily on Mackay’s course management expertise and calm demeanor in pressure situations.
“Bones has an exceptional way of reading greens and helping with club selection,” Thomas once remarked. Their communication style on course emphasized precision and thoughtful decision-making.
While caddying for Thomas, Mackay occasionally returned to broadcasting as a lead analyst. This dual role highlighted his versatility and deep understanding of the professional game.
Major Achievements
Jim “Bones” Mackay has established himself as one of golf’s most recognizable figures, first through his lengthy career as a caddie and later as a respected broadcaster.
Career Wins as a Caddie
Mackay’s career is defined by his legendary 25-year partnership with Phil Mickelson. During this remarkable run, he was on the bag for 42 PGA TOUR wins, cementing his place in golf history.
His caddie expertise was crucial in five major championship victories. Mackay was alongside Mickelson for the 2004 and 2006 Masters victories, as well as the 2005 PGA Championship.
After parting ways with Mickelson in 2017, Mackay didn’t stay unemployed for long. He later joined Justin Thomas’s team, adding to his impressive resume of working with elite golfers.
| Major Championships with Mickelson |
|---|
| 2004 Masters Tournament |
| 2005 PGA Championship |
| 2006 Masters Tournament |
| 2010 Masters Tournament |
| 2013 Open Championship |
Impact in Broadcasting
After his caddie career, Mackay transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting. He joined NBC Sports and Golf Channel as an on-course reporter, bringing his deep knowledge of tournament golf to viewers.
His unique perspective as a former caddie gives his commentary unmatched authenticity. Viewers benefit from his insights about course strategy, player decisions, and the caddie-player relationship dynamics.
Mackay’s broadcasting style combines technical expertise with accessible explanations. He helps casual fans understand the complexities of professional golf while satisfying dedicated followers with nuanced analysis.
His ability to predict player decisions and explain their strategic thinking has made him one of the most respected voices in golf broadcasting today.
Behind-the-Scenes
Jim Mackay’s transition from caddie to broadcaster has involved extensive behind-the-scenes work with NBC’s golf production team. His expertise and insights have become valuable assets to the network’s coverage as he works closely with various production personnel.
Collaboration with Production Crew
In the broadcast booth, Mackay works extensively with NBC’s renowned production team. He coordinates with directors and camera operators to position himself perfectly on the course for optimal coverage.
The former caddie has developed strong working relationships with producers like Tommy Roy, NBC’s lead golf producer. Their collaboration ensures that Mackay’s insights are integrated seamlessly into broadcasts.
During tournaments, Mackay wears an earpiece to stay connected with the production truck. This allows him to respond quickly to developing situations on the course.
His experience as Phil Mickelson’s longtime caddie for 25 years gives him unique perspectives that the production team leverages during broadcasts. The crew often consults him on player tendencies and course strategies.
Working with NBC/Golf Channel Executives
Mackay maintains regular communication with NBC Sports executives, including Sam Flood, NBC Sports’ Executive Producer. These relationships helped facilitate his return to broadcasting full-time.
His contract with NBC/Golf Channel reportedly includes flexibility that allows him to maintain connections in the caddie world while fulfilling his broadcasting duties. This arrangement demonstrates the value executives place on his expertise.
NBC executives have praised Mackay’s ability to translate complex golfing concepts for viewers. His straightforward communication style aligns perfectly with the network’s approach to golf coverage.
Since joining NBC in 2017, Mackay has participated in strategic planning meetings with executives to shape coverage approaches for major tournaments. His input has influenced how NBC presents technical aspects of golf to audiences.
Personal Anecdotes
Jim “Bones” Mackay’s career has been filled with colorful moments both as a caddie and broadcaster, showcasing his deep knowledge and personality in the golf world.
Memorable Moments in Caddying
Bones forged his legacy during his 25-year partnership with Phil Mickelson, where they captured five major championships together. Their collaboration yielded 41 total victories, cementing Mackay as one of golf’s elite caddies.
One particularly dramatic moment came at Pinehurst during the 1999 U.S. Open, where Mackay helped Mickelson navigate the course while Phil wore a beeper, ready to leave if his wife went into labor with their first child.
At the 2017 PGA Championship, after joining Justin Thomas’s bag, Mackay delivered a crucial pep talk that many credit with helping Thomas secure his second major championship.
“My wife will tell you the person I said I’d leave [broadcasting] for was Justin Thomas,” Mackay once revealed, highlighting his belief in Thomas’s exceptional talent.
Behind the Microphone Experiences
Transitioning to broadcasting in 2017, Mackay quickly established himself as a respected on-course commentator for NBC and Golf Channel. His insider perspective brought fresh insights to viewers.
The call that changed his career path came from Tommy Roy, NBC’s lead golf producer, offering him a broadcasting position after his split with Mickelson. Mackay’s caddie knowledge translated seamlessly to television commentary.
In 2023, Mackay expanded his broadcasting role by becoming the host of “Playing Lessons,” where he interviews top golf professionals about their techniques and strategies.
His commentary hasn’t been without controversy. During a 2024 NBC broadcast, Mackay criticized golfer Alejandro Tosti for slow play, which prompted Tosti to publicly defend himself on social media the following day.
Continued Involvement in Golf
Jim “Bones” Mackay has maintained a significant presence in the golf world through his dual roles as both an active caddie and broadcast analyst. His expertise on the course has translated seamlessly to his work in television while he continues to loop for one of the game’s top players.
Active Caddying Engagements
Mackay currently serves as the caddie for Justin Thomas, one of golf’s premier talents. Their partnership began after Mackay ended his legendary 25-year stint with Phil Mickelson. What makes Mackay unique in the caddie world is his ability to balance looping duties with broadcast work.
This dual role created a historic moment in February 2024 when Mackay became the first active caddie to serve as a lead analyst for NBC Sports during the Mexico Open at Vidanta. This opportunity arose because Thomas wasn’t competing in the tournament.
The Thomas-Mackay partnership has produced several noteworthy results:
| Year | Major Championships | PGA Tour Wins |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 1 (PGA Championship) | 2 |
| 2023 | 0 | 1 |
Participation in Golf Events
Beyond caddying, Mackay has expanded his golf involvement through broadcasting. He initially joined NBC Sports in 2017 as an on-course reporter for PGA TOUR coverage, establishing himself as a knowledgeable voice.
His broadcasting credibility led NBC to tap him as part of their rotation of guest lead analysts following Paul Azinger’s departure. This arrangement allows Mackay to work events like the Mexico Open when Thomas isn’t playing.
Mackay’s broadcasting schedule has included prestigious tournaments such as the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship. His insider perspective as an active caddie provides viewers with unique insights into course strategy and player decision-making that few analysts can match.
Legacy and Influence
Jim “Bones” Mackay has left an indelible mark on the world of professional golf through his exceptional career as both a caddie and broadcaster. His influence extends from reshaping the perception of caddies to elevating golf commentary with his insider perspective.
Influence on Future Caddies
Mackay’s 25-year partnership with Phil Mickelson revolutionized how caddies are viewed in professional golf. No longer just bag carriers, Mackay demonstrated that caddies could be strategic partners and crucial decision-makers.
His meticulous preparation and course management skills set a new standard for the profession. Young caddies now study his approach to yardage books and green reading.
Mackay’s visible role during critical tournament moments—particularly in major championships—showcased the caddie’s importance in high-pressure situations. His calm demeanor during Mickelson’s 2004 Masters victory became a masterclass in caddie poise.
His willingness to speak candidly with his player, even challenging decisions when necessary, established a template for productive player-caddie relationships that many now emulate.
Contribution to Golf Broadcasting
After leaving Mickelson’s bag, Mackay seamlessly transitioned to NBC Sports in 2017. He brought unprecedented caddie insight to television audiences. His commentary provided viewers with authentic perspectives on course strategy and player decision-making.
Mackay’s broadcasting style stands out for its technical precision without overwhelming casual fans. His explanations of wind effects, green slopes, and club selection decisions have educated viewers about the subtleties of elite golf.
During Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup coverage, his insights into team dynamics and pressure management added depth to NBC’s broadcasts.
Though he eventually returned to caddying for Justin Thomas, Mackay’s broadcasting stint helped elevate on-course reporting. His brief but impactful media career demonstrated how former caddies could bring unique value to golf coverage.
