Verne Lundquist returns to the 16th tower for the Masters and sports fans rejoice

There are few broadcasters across sports who are more beloved than Verne Lundquist, affectionately known by SEC football and golf fans as “Uncle Verne.”

The CBS broadcaster joined the TV coverage of the Masters golf tournament from Augusta National on Thursday, and sports fans around the country shared their joy on social media.

Known for iconic calls on monumental sporting events like Jack Nicklaus in 1986 and Tiger Woods multiple times at the Masters, and the “Kick Six” game in the Iron Bowl, sports fans understand that Lundquist is often on the microphone when important storylines unfold in sports. His customary position at Augusta National is in the tower on the 16th hole.

Here’s a sampling of some of the reaction:

Verne Lundquist on 16. All is right with the world.

— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) April 8, 2021

“My gracious…” V. Lundquist #legend #themasters

— Matt Barrie (@MattBarrie) April 8, 2021

Every time Uncle Verne comes out of retirement for a weekend and lets loose a “my gracious!” on live TV, an angel gets its wings

— Alex Kirshner (@alex_kirshner) April 8, 2021

Hey. Verne. I love you. pic.twitter.com/GwYXWFGJWP

— Midwestern Uncle (@pastramiboi) April 8, 2021

“Gosh, this is fun.” -Uncle Verne

— Mike Foss (@MikeFossWXYZ) April 8, 2021

Uncle Verne is a national treasure #themasters

— Andrew Meyers (@OldDirtyMerrs) April 8, 2021

Uncle Verne and Augusta. I don’t want to say we’re back, but…

— Matthew Harding 😷 (@Matt_Harding) April 8, 2021

Uncle Verne always great to hear him calling some masters

— paul (@yanksfan109) April 8, 2021

I always wait for the four days of the year I get to hear Uncle Verne. Its incredible all the moments he gas seen from up there and is still calling from the 16th tower. In your life! @CBSSports @GOLFonCBS @TheMasters

— Brian W. Barth (@BrianWBarth) April 8, 2021