Notah Begay III – Golf Channel Contract, Net Worth, Detailed Information: Career Insights and Financial Overview
Notah Begay III is one of the few Native American golfers who found real success on the PGA Tour and then made a smooth transition to being an analyst for the Golf Channel and NBC Sports. He currently holds a full-time contract with NBC Sports and the Golf Channel, and his estimated net worth sits around $5 million. As a four-time PGA Tour winner, Begay brings a rare mix of firsthand experience and honest perspective to his media work. That’s probably why so many golf fans trust his voice in golf coverage.
People aren’t just curious about his golf game. A lot of fans want to know how he’s built his life and career off the course, too—his business efforts, his roots, and what drives him. Begay’s story, which started in New Mexico and led to national attention, stands out for his athletic talent and his dedication to giving back through various foundations.
Key Stats Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Notah Ryan Begay III |
| Birth Year | 1972 |
| PGA Tour Wins | 4 |
| Current Role | Golf Channel & NBC Sports Analyst |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Notable Ventures | KivaSun Foods, Notah Begay III Foundation |
Want a deeper dive into Notah Begay III’s career and net worth? Here’s how he became a respected name in golf, both on and off the course.
Contents
- 1 Notah Begay III – Comprehensive Career Overview
- 2 Notah Begay III – Golf Channel Contract & Media Involvement
- 3 Notah Begay III Net Worth and Financial Profile
- 4 Personal Life and Legacy
- 5 Golf Course Design and Development
- 6 Playing Style and Techniques
- 7 Other Interests and Activities
- 8 Notable Incidents and Recognition
Notah Begay III – Comprehensive Career Overview
Notah Begay III, a Native American golfer, has stood out for his achievements on the PGA Tour and his commitment to his heritage. His path from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to national recognition blends academic drive, athletic skill, and a lot of grit.
Early Life and Background
Born in Albuquerque, Notah Begay III carries Navajo and Pueblo ancestry. Growing up in a community steeped in tradition, he developed a strong sense of identity and family. He went to Albuquerque Academy and didn’t just stick to golf—he played basketball and soccer, too.
His family really valued education. That focus pushed him to work just as hard in the classroom as he did in sports. The San Felipe and Isleta tribes influenced his outlook and inspired him to give back. Later on, these experiences would motivate him to support Native American communities through his foundation and businesses.
Amateur Career Highlights
Begay attended Stanford University and played alongside some of the biggest names in modern golf. He helped lead Stanford to a win at the 1994 NCAA Division I Men’s Golf Championship, which was a huge achievement.
He earned All-American honors three times during college, proving his skill and consistency. Begay graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, balancing sports and schoolwork impressively. The discipline he gained at Stanford helped him handle the pressure of professional golf. His amateur success got him noticed as a young golfer with real potential.
Rise to Professional Golf
After college, Begay turned pro and started out on the Nike Tour (now the Korn Ferry Tour). He made an immediate impression in 1998 by winning two events: the Dominion Open and the New Mexico Open.
Those victories got him his PGA Tour card and gave him a confidence boost. Begay’s quick rise in professional golf showed his determination and focus. As one of the few Native American golfers in the spotlight, he soon became a role model for others hoping to break into the sport.
By the end of his rookie year, his results spoke for themselves. People started to see him as a rising star.
PGA Tour Achievements
Begay hit his stride on the PGA Tour between 1999 and 2000, racking up four wins. He won twice at the Reno-Tahoe Open and twice at the Greater Hartford Open, making him one of the rare Native American golfers with multiple PGA victories.
In 2000, he reached as high as 19th in the Official World Golf Ranking. That was the peak of his playing career.
He also represented the United States in the 2000 Presidents Cup, which is no small feat. Begay played in several key PGA Tour events. Even though back injuries eventually slowed his playing career, he kept giving back to the sport as an analyst and mentor.
Begay’s PGA Tour Career Stats
| Year | Wins | Top-10 Finishes | Highest Official World Golf Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999-2000 | 4 | 15 | 19th |
Begay’s accomplishments go beyond just his own career. He’s become an important figure for Native American representation in sports. For more on his stats, check out the PGA TOUR profile of Notah Begay III.
Notah Begay III – Golf Channel Contract & Media Involvement
Notah Begay III has earned respect as a golf analyst and a leader in sports broadcasting. His work on TV sets a great example for how athletes can move into media and really make a difference for the sport.
Role with Golf Channel
Begay started as an analyst for the Golf Channel in 2010. Leaving the PGA Tour for media, he used his expertise to make golf coverage more insightful.
He brings a rare perspective as one of the few Native American golfers to play on the PGA Tour. His commentary draws heavily from his experience as a four-time winner, adding real depth to tournament analysis.
Begay covers live event analysis, studio shows, and special features. He regularly explains strategy, highlights up-and-coming talent, and shines a light on junior golf, including the Notah Begay III Junior Golf National Championship.
Partnership with NBC Sports
In 2013, Begay took on more by joining NBC Sports Group full-time. This move brought his insights to a bigger audience and gave him more airtime during high-profile events.
Working with NBC Sports, Begay gets to cover major tournaments like the U.S. Open and Ryder Cup. He analyzes crucial moments, breaks down players’ decisions, and shares the kind of insight that comes only from years on tour.
Begay’s presence on both Golf Channel and NBC Sports helps create a seamless media approach. Fans of pro golf and junior events recognize him, and his reputation as a leading sports analyst keeps growing.
Sports Broadcasting and Analysis
Begay’s on-air work really stands out for its thoughtful, detail-oriented approach. He focuses on both technical skills and the mental game, often referencing his own playing days to explain how pros handle pressure.
People recognize him as one of the top 100 sports educators in the country. He’s known for teaching audiences about the fundamentals and the stories behind the sport. Begay also mentors junior golfers and works to boost diversity in golf.
Here’s a quick look at where Begay’s broadcasting makes a difference:
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Coverage | PGA Tour, U.S. Open, Ryder Cup, Junior Golf |
| Signature Style | Data-driven analysis, player perspective, focus on education and diversity |
| Off-air Initiatives | Notah Begay III Junior Golf National Championship, program development |
Notah Begay III Salary and Compensation
As an analyst for Golf Channel and NBC Sports, Begay pulls in an average annual salary of about $112,300. That kind of pay puts him among the better-compensated golf analysts, which makes sense given his experience and the audience he draws.
His total net worth is around $5 million. This number includes his winnings from playing, media contracts, and business ventures in golf.
Besides his salary, Begay benefits from his long-term media presence and business interests tied to golf education and youth programs. All these different streams make up the bulk of his financial profile as one of the most established voices in golf television.
Notah Begay III Net Worth and Financial Profile
Notah Begay III has built a solid financial base through golf, media, business, and charity work. He’s made a real impact both on the course and in Native American communities.
Current Net Worth Assessment
Begay’s net worth is estimated at $5 million. That includes his golf earnings, broadcasting salary, and business interests. While his golf career gave him a strong start, his work off the course has helped his wealth grow steadily.
Here’s a look at where his money comes from:
| Revenue Source | Estimated Contribution |
|---|---|
| PGA Tour Wins & Earnings | Moderate |
| Golf Channel & NBC Salary | High |
| Business Ventures | Moderate |
| Philanthropy | Charitable work |
His steady salary and ongoing projects keep his financial profile both stable and growing. You can read more about his estimated net worth.
Earnings from Golf and Media
Begay won four PGA Tour titles during his pro career. Those wins, along with tournament finishes and endorsements, gave him early financial security.
After his days as a regular tournament player, he signed on with the Golf Channel in 2010 and joined NBC Sports full-time in 2013. His salary as a golf analyst is about $112,300 per year.
This steady income comes from his analyst work and special assignments. His golf winnings and media jobs together make up a major part of his income. For more details on his golf and media earnings, there’s plenty more out there.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Begay hasn’t just stuck to golf and TV. He started KivaSun Foods, a company that supplies bison-based products and encourages healthy eating. The business focuses on sustainable, nutritious food for Native communities and beyond.
He also runs NB3 Consulting, which helps tribal communities with development projects, economic planning, and wellness strategies. Through these ventures, Begay has broadened his financial interests. These businesses boost his net worth and support his goal to empower Native populations in health and business.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Begay cares deeply about giving back, especially to Native American youth. He founded the Notah Begay III Foundation to improve health and wellness for Native children across the country.
The foundation works with tribal communities to run golf clinics and sponsor fitness events. By focusing on health and wellness education, Begay wants to fight high rates of diabetes and obesity among Native kids. His commitment to this cause has earned him a lot of respect. You can find more about his foundation and its work at the Notah Begay III Foundation.
Personal Life and Legacy
Notah Begay III’s reach goes way beyond golf. His story is rooted in family, culture, and a real ability to overcome obstacles.
Family and Personal Background
Born Notah Ryan Begay III on September 14, 1972, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he’s kept his roots strong. He’s married to Apryl Begay, and they’ve built a close family life.
He’s related to professional soccer player Madison Hammond, which just adds to his family’s presence in American sports. Begay, carrying on his family name as the third generation, often credits his family’s encouragement for his success.
Key Personal Details:
| Name | Notah Ryan Begay III |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | September 14, 1972 |
| Spouse | Apryl Begay |
| Notable Relative | Madison Hammond |
| Hometown | Albuquerque, New Mexico |
Cultural Heritage and Advocacy
Begay comes from both Navajo and Pueblo backgrounds, making him one of the few Native Americans to find real success on the PGA Tour. He talks often about how much his background means to him, and he jumps at chances to support Native American youth through outreach and mentorship.
He works hard to keep Native cultures alive, especially the Navajo language, and he shows up for programs that back indigenous education and health. His golf career has brought much-needed attention to Native American voices, and he keeps setting a strong example for young athletes from minority backgrounds.
Begay starts foundations, leads golf camps, and speaks at events, all with the goal of empowering Native communities.
Health Challenges and Recovery
Notah Begay had a major health scare in 2014—a heart attack at just 41. That moment really changed things for him, and he started pushing for heart health awareness in his community.
After he recovered, Begay shifted his focus to healthier living, making changes to his diet and exercise habits. He’s been open about his experience, urging others—especially Native Americans, who face higher risks for heart disease—to stay on top of their health.
He talks honestly about his recovery and the tough parts, which has made him a strong advocate for wellness.
Golf Course Design and Development
Notah Begay III has made a name for himself in golf course design too. He leads projects that focus on modern layouts and community impact through his company, NB3 Consulting.
Signature Golf Course Projects
Begay launched NB3 Consulting in 2002 to manage his design work. In 2009, he played a big role in developing Sequoyah National, which Golf Magazine named the second-best new golf course in the country. His team also built Firekeeper Golf Course in 2010, and that course quickly became the top-rated place to play in Kansas.
He’s also had a hand in building Sewailo Golf Club and Dallas National Golf Club. These courses stand out for their thoughtful layouts and the way they respect the land’s natural beauty. Begay’s projects highlight both playability and cultural themes.
| Golf Course | Year Opened | Notable Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| Sequoyah National | 2009 | #2 New Course (Golf Magazine) |
| Firekeeper Golf Course | 2010 | #1 Best Place to Play in Kansas |
| Sewailo Golf Club | 2013 | Praised for design and cultural significance |
| Dallas National Golf Club | 2002 | Top Texas course, known for championship-level architecture |
If you want more details about Begay’s development work, check out his role with NB3 Consulting.
Playing Style and Techniques
Notah Begay III didn’t rely on power—he built his reputation on precision and strategy. People recognize him for his creative shot-making and his smart approach to every hole.
Putting Techniques
Begay stands out for his unusual putting style. He’s one of the rare professional golfers who putted both right-handed and left-handed, depending on how the green broke. For right-to-left-breaking putts, he’d use his right hand. If the ball broke left-to-right, he’d switch and putt left-handed.
This approach helped him see and control the ball’s roll better, giving him a real edge. He could read greens and adjust his stroke to fit the situation, which made him especially tough on challenging putts.
His ambidextrous style was definitely rare on the PGA Tour. It showed he wasn’t afraid to try new things and tweak his game for better results.
Putts by Break Direction (PGA Tour Career)
| Putt Handedness | Break Direction | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Right-handed | Right-to-left-breaking putts | Primary method |
| Left-handed | Left-to-right-breaking putts | Alternative |
Analysts still talk about Begay’s putting method for its boldness and efficiency. For younger golfers, his style is a reminder that sometimes, going against the grain pays off.
Other Interests and Activities
Notah Begay III stays busy off the golf course, giving his time to youth sports and nonprofit work. He focuses on more than just athletics—health education and fair access for kids matter to him too.
Involvement in Soccer
Begay’s love for sports isn’t limited to golf. He supports youth soccer programs, especially those that help young athletes from all sorts of backgrounds. He’s also backed girls’ sports, which lines up with the rise of leagues like the National Women’s Soccer League.
He does more than just talk about soccer. He’s funded youth clinics and teamed up with local organizations to promote teamwork and healthy habits. His vision is about building skills and leadership, not just winning matches.
Key Soccer and Sports Outreach Stats
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Youth soccer clinics | In various states |
| Focus age group | Ages 8–16 |
| Girls’ sports engagement | Partnerships with NWSL programs |
| Volunteer coaches | Local community members |
These efforts open up opportunities in places where sports resources are pretty limited.
Community and Educational Initiatives
Begay started the Notah Begay III Foundation, which runs golf programs and wellness education for Native American youth. The foundation has grown a lot, with assets reaching over $13 million in 2023.
The programs focus on health and wellness, aiming to cut down diabetes and increase physical activity. Kids get golf instruction, nutrition workshops, and fitness camps.
Begay’s work here is all about long-term impact. The foundation gets support from experienced coaches, community leaders, and schools. This approach gives Native youth real guidance—on and off the course.
Notable Incidents and Recognition
Notah Begay III’s career has had its ups and downs. He’s faced legal trouble, but he’s also earned plenty of respect for his impact in and out of golf.
DUI Incident
In 2000, Notah Begay III got into serious legal trouble. Police arrested him for driving under the influence after he crashed into a parked car outside an Albuquerque bar. The court gave him seven days in jail.
Begay didn’t hide from what happened. He talked about the incident openly and said he learned a hard lesson. The experience changed him, and he put more focus on making better choices, both personally and professionally.
He’s since spoken out about the dangers of drunk driving. He encourages athletes and young people to make safe decisions. According to interviews, that incident played a big part in shaping him as a mentor and speaker in the sports world. For more, you can read about it on Golf Channel analyst Notah Begay’s life change.
Awards and Honors
Notah Begay III has picked up recognition for his work in golf and sports education. People named him one of the top 100 sports educators in the country, and he’s received plenty of praise for his leadership.
Over the years, Begay has racked up several awards as both a player and an analyst. He won multiple times on the PGA Tour and earned All-American honors at Stanford.
A lot of folks respect him for his broadcasting work and his commitment to Native American sports development.
Career Highlights Table
| Accomplishment | Details |
|---|---|
| PGA Tour Wins | 4 |
| All-American (Stanford) | Yes |
| Top 100 Sports Educators | Recognized |
| Golf Channel Analyst | Since 2013 |
Begay does more than just play golf. He started golf organizations and has pushed to make the sport more accessible for young people, especially in Native communities.
His dedication has made him a well-known figure in sports media and youth mentorship.
