Episode 18

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Published on:

24th Jun 2025

From MLB to the French Open: Brian Anderson on Tennis’ Greatest Match & the Art of Play-by-Play

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 


Transcript

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About the Podcast

Fans First a Sports Podcast
Welcome to "Fans First: A Sports Podcast," where your voice matters most! Hosted by the legendary Hall of Fame sportscaster Jim Powell, this show puts fans at the heart of the conversation. We believe sports are more than just games—they’re a way of life, a source of passion, and a community that brings people together. That’s why "Fans First" is here to celebrate your insights, opinions, and love for the game like never before. Whether you’re cheering in the stands, shouting at the TV, or debating trades with friends, "Fans First" is your go-to destination for all things sports.


Each episode features fan-driven discussions, expert analysis, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Jim Powell brings his wealth of experience and storytelling prowess to every episode, guiding conversations that are as engaging as they are insightful. But this podcast isn’t just about the headlines—it’s about the stories that matter to you. From the thrill of victory to the agony of defeat, from blockbuster trades to unforgettable moments in sports history, "Fans First" covers it all. We’re here to give you a platform to share your thoughts, ask tough questions, and connect with a community of fellow sports enthusiasts.


Join us each week as we explore the stories behind the scores, the emotions behind the plays, and the fans who make it all possible. Plus, don’t miss our special segments—“Flip the Switch,” where we suddenly turn the conversation in an unexpected new direction, and “Get Off My Lawn,” where fans can offer their spirited opinions about the hottest current topics in sports before the host gets his chance to react. So, tune in, speak up, and be part of the sports conversation that celebrates what makes the game great—you, the fan!


Bio: Jim Powell is an American radio and television sportscaster, previously employed with Major League Baseball's Milwaukee Brewers (1996–2008) and Atlanta Braves (2009–2023). A native of Roswell, Georgia, Powell was educated at the University of Georgia. He began his baseball play-by-play career with the minor-league Columbia Mets (1987–89, 1993–94) and Charlotte Knights (1990–91, 1995), also calling games part-time for the Minnesota Twins in 1993–94 before being hired by the Brewers in 1996. Teaming with Bob Uecker, Powell called games for the Milwaukee Brewers Radio Network and was Uecker’s longest-tenured partner. Powell was named Wisconsin Sportscaster of the Year in 1998. In 2009, he began teaming with Don Sutton to call games on the Atlanta Braves Radio Network and continued his play-by-play role through 2023. In addition to his baseball work, Powell has called college football (for the University of South Carolina and CBS Radio) and college basketball (for Davidson College and South Carolina) at various points in his career. Powell was a National Merit Scholar and is MENSA-qualified. He was inducted into the Georgia Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2020.


Social Media Handles:
X: https://x.com/Jim_Powell
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/
Website: Fansfirstpodcast.com

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