2026 Masters Preview: Steve Sands on how Phil Mickelson helped shape his career at Augusta National, his photo with Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player
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In this special Masters preview episode of Subpar, hosts Colt Nost and Drew Stultz welcome longtime golf broadcaster Steve Sands for an in-depth conversation about his 23rd Masters coverage and the legendary moments that shaped his career. Sands shares heartfelt stories from Augusta National, including how Phil Mickelson’s unexpected willingness to do four consecutive interviews in 2004—just before winning his first major—helped launch Sands’ career. He recounts the iconic moment when Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Gary Player invited him into a historic group photo during a live broadcast, a gesture that Sands calls the highlight of his professional life. The episode also dives into Sands’ journey from a struggling college student in Fort Collins to a respected voice on NBC and Golf Channel, crediting mentors like Professor Fred Shook and broadcasting idols such as Jim Nance. With personal anecdotes about Tiger Woods, Frank Nabilo, and the late Arnold Palmer, Sands reveals the authenticity and respect that define his relationships with athletes. The episode closes with a fun, rapid-fire Q&A where Sands picks George Clooney to play him in a biopic and shares humorous tales of mistaken identity at karaoke nights.
Phil Mickelson’s four consecutive interviews in 2004—before winning his first Masters—were pivotal for Steve Sands’ career and helped cement his reputation at the Golf Channel.
Arnold Palmer’s spontaneous decision to include Steve Sands in a photo with Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player at Augusta National remains one of the most cherished moments in golf broadcasting history.
Sands emphasizes that trust and authenticity are essential in athlete interviews—especially in tough moments—by framing questions with positivity before addressing disappointment.
The story of Frank Nabilo’s infamous 'F off' response to Sands during Q-School, later revealed to be fueled by emotional stress, became a legendary tale of redemption and friendship.
Sands’ career was transformed by mentors like Professor Fred Shook and by being in the right place at the right time—like being the interviewer when Tiger Woods first gained national attention at Quail Hollow.
Masters Week Kickoff & J.J. Spahn’s Comeback
The hosts open with excitement for the 90th Masters, highlighting J.J. Spahn’s recent win at the Valero Texas Open and his strong form heading into Augusta. They praise his resilience and discuss his potential to contend at Augusta National.
Sponsor Spotlight: ShipStix & CalShea
The episode features two sponsor segments: ShipStix, promoting their golf club shipping service with a 20% discount code, and CalShea, a real-money prediction market where listeners can trade against other users, not the house.
Masters Betting Preview & Hidden Gems
The hosts break down their betting picks for the Masters, spotlighting under-the-radar players like Jacob Bridgman and Xander Schauffele. They emphasize the value of betting against human opinion rather than Vegas lines.
The Challenge of Closing Out Wins: Ludwig Oberg
The hosts analyze Ludwig Oberg’s strong record at Augusta but growing concern over his inability to close out tournaments, questioning whether he has the 'killer instinct' needed to win majors.
Sponsor: Shady Rays Golf Shades
A promotional segment for Shady Rays, highlighting their polarized sunglasses with Color Rush Lens Tech, lightweight frames, and a lost-and-broken protection program, offering 40% off with code SUBPAR.
“We want it with you. I'm like, Oh, Mr. Palmer. I appreciate that. But let me take a picture of you guys. He goes, no, no, no, no. We want it with you.”
“I've never met anybody like it. I've never met an athlete like it. I've never met a human being like it.”
“He played well the first three days. We've done it three days in a row. There was no way I couldn't do it. Let's do it.”
Hosts
Guest
Steve Sands
person
Augusta National
place
Phil Mickelson
person
Arnold Palmer
person
Jack Nicklaus
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Gary Player
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Tiger Woods
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Colt Nost
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Drew Stultz
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J.J. Spahn
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