Ken Mack cherishes the moments he finds before every game he produces, reflecting on a 35-year career with CBS Sports. Stepping onto the Alamodome court in San Antonio, Texas, for Monday night’s game, feels especially significant. This game marks his debut as the lead producer for the national championship broadcast on CBS, featuring Florida against Houston.
“I’m thrilled to be working alongside such a remarkable team, both on camera and behind the scenes,” Mack expressed. “This season has been a delight, with the stories naturally unfolding.” Mack assumed this role following Mark Wolff’s retirement last year, who had been the lead producer since 2011.
The top crew for the NCAA Tournament on CBS and TNT Sports has recently undergone notable changes. Mark Grant assumed the role of lead director in 2023 after Bob Fishman, who directed 39 Final Fours, retired. Additionally, last year saw Ian Eagle ascend to the primary play-by-play position, replacing Jim Nantz, who stepped down from calling the March Madness games following 32 Final Fours. Nantz, however, will be present at Monday night’s game, as his alma mater, Houston, seeks its first men’s basketball national title.
Mack, who will celebrate his 57th birthday on April 25, boasts a history with CBS that includes producing their first 3D broadcast of the Final Four in 2010 and overseeing the First Four games starting in 2011. His collaboration with Ian Eagle extends back to their experience together on CBS’ No. 2 NFL crew.
Throughout his career, Mack has been involved in many of CBS’ major events. Although technology has advanced over the years, his core principle remains to ensure the game remains central, despite the addition of more cameras. For Monday’s event, CBS has equipped the broadcast with over 50 cameras, including drones for capturing the exterior of the Alamodome and a Skycam for aerial views of the court action.
Mack emphasized, “We cherish these tools and want to utilize them effectively to enhance the storytelling, but ultimately, it’s all about the game.” The presence of all four top seeds reaching the Final Four for the first time since 2008, according to Mack, has intensified the excitement.
“There are so many stories we can’t cover, but I hope viewers grow fond of these teams the more they watch them,” Mack noted. “There is a wealth of talent, both in players and coaches, and amazing programs. It’s rewarding to showcase their achievements.”