The most versatile and skilled play-by-play announcer in sports, Brian Anderson, joins Jim Powell on Episode 18 of Fans First, a sports podcast. Together, they unpack what could go down as the greatest tennis match of all time: the epic five-set Alcaraz vs. Sinner showdown at the 2025 French Open.

Brian Anderson takes us behind the scenes of his transition from calling NBA, MLB, and March Madness to mastering the craft of tennis commentary. In this episode of the Fans First sports podcast, Brian shares how he prepared for seven months, training on the court, analyzing elite tennis strategies, and even taking 120mph serves, to bring authenticity and energy to the French Open broadcast.

With his trademark storytelling style, Brian explains how a great play-by-play announcer brings tennis to life for both diehard fans and casual viewers. Whether he’s calling a pitch in baseball or a winner on clay, Anderson knows how to connect the moment to the audience. His approach to the 2025 French Open, and especially to what many call the greatest tennis match of all time, shows why he’s one of the most respected voices in sports broadcasting.

This episode is packed with insights about pressure, preparation, and performance. Jim and Brian also explore the broader role of the sports podcast medium, and how Fans First aims to elevate fan voices across every game and every sport.

IN THIS EPISODE:

•  (00:00) Brian Anderson reflects on French Open debut and imposter syndrome
• (04:04) Transitioning from MLB and NBA to French Open tennis coverage
•  (07:15) Seven months of prep for calling the French Ope
•  (16:15) Breaking down the Alcaraz vs. Sinner final—the greatest tennis match of all time
• (24:50) Communicating tennis to casual fans as a seasoned play-by-play announcer
• (29:22) How the Fans First sports podcast gives voice to sports lovers
• (35:07) Why Brian Anderson stepped away from football broadcasting
• (39:01) Lessons from elite sports moments across French Open, NBA, and MLB

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Brian Anderson’s preparation for the French Open was more demanding than any NBA or MLB assignment.
• The Alcaraz vs. Sinner final at the 2025 French Open could be the greatest tennis match of all time.
• A skilled play-by-play announcer translates the intensity of tennis, NBA, and MLB to fans everywhere.
• Fans First is a sports podcast committed to putting fans at the center of every conversation.

ABOUT THE GUEST: 

Brian Anderson is one of the most accomplished and versatile play-by-play announcers in sports. Known for his work on MLB, NBA, March Madness, and now the French Open, he blends preparation and instinct to deliver unforgettable broadcasts. His call of the 2025 French Open final between Alcaraz and Sinner was a career-defining moment that placed him firmly in tennis history and reinforced his standing as a go-to voice for elite sporting events.

RESOURCE LINKS 

• Fans First Sports Podcast – https://fansfirstpodcast.com
• Georgia Advisory Group (Show Sponsor) – https://www.gaadvisorygroup.com/
• Brian Anderson Profile – https://www.instagram.com/bandersonpxp/