Notah Begay III stands as one of the rare Native American golfers who dominated the PGA Tour before transitioning into broadcasting. His journey from Albuquerque to national fame showcases athletic brilliance and cultural pride. Today he works as a respected Golf Channel analyst earning substantial income through his NBC Sports contract.
His estimated net worth sits around $5 million accumulated through tournament winnings and media work. Fans aren’t just curious about his golf game anymore. They want to know about his business ventures including KivaSun Foods and consulting work. His Notah Begay III Foundation continues making waves in Native American communities nationwide.
This comprehensive guide reveals everything about his career earnings and broadcasting salary and entrepreneurial success. You’ll discover how a four-time PGA Tour winner built lasting wealth beyond competitive golf. His story inspires through achievements in golf course design and philanthropy and sports education.
Key Stats Table
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Notah Ryan Begay III |
| Birth Year | 1972 |
| PGA Tour Wins | 4 |
| Current Role | Golf Channel & NBC Sports Analyst |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Notable Ventures | KivaSun Foods, Notah Begay III Foundation |
Notah Begay III – Comprehensive Career Overview
Notah Begay III carved his path from Albuquerque, New Mexico to becoming a celebrated professional golfer and media personality. His Navajo and Pueblo heritage shaped his identity and fueled his determination throughout his competitive years. At Stanford University he balanced academics with athletics earning his Bachelor of Science degree while competing at elite levels.
His groundbreaking status as a successful Native American golfer on the PGA Tour opened doors for future generations. The combination of his four PGA Tour wins and cultural advocacy created a unique legacy. His early experiences with the San Felipe and Isleta tribes inspired his later philanthropic work through various youth programs and wellness initiatives.
Early Life and Background
Notah Ryan Begay III was born September 14 1972 in Albuquerque where he grew up surrounded by rich tribal traditions. His family emphasized education just as much as athletics during his formative years at Albuquerque Academy. He didn’t limit himself to golf but excelled in basketball and soccer showing his diverse athletic talents.
His Navajo and Pueblo ancestry gave him a strong sense of identity and purpose from childhood. The San Felipe and Isleta tribes influenced his worldview and commitment to giving back to indigenous communities. These early experiences planted seeds for his future foundation work and advocacy for Native American youth across the country.
Amateur Career Highlights
At Stanford he played alongside future legends and helped secure the 1994 NCAA Division I Men’s Golf Championship victory. His three All-American honors proved his consistency and skill against the nation’s best collegiate golfers. He managed to excel academically while maintaining elite performance on the golf course throughout his university years.
The discipline he developed at Stanford prepared him perfectly for the mental challenges of professional golf. His amateur career generated significant attention from scouts and sponsors who recognized his tournament-winning potential. By graduation he’d already established himself as a rising star ready to compete at the highest levels.
Rise to Professional Golf
After leaving Stanford he turned professional and immediately made his mark on the Nike Tour in 1998. He won both the Dominion Open and New Mexico Open that year securing his coveted PGA Tour card. His rapid ascent demonstrated the preparation and competitive fire he’d built during his collegiate years.
As one of few Native American golfers in the professional ranks he quickly became a role model. His victories weren’t just personal achievements but symbolic breakthroughs for indigenous athletes everywhere. The confidence from those early wins propelled him toward even greater success on golf’s biggest stage.
PGA Tour Achievements
Between 1999 and 2000 Notah Begay III captured four PGA Tour victories cementing his place in golf history. He won twice at the Reno-Tahoe Open and twice at the Greater Hartford Open showcasing his ability to close tournaments. In 2000 he reached his career-high ranking of 19th in the Official World Golf Ranking.
That same year he represented the United States in the prestigious 2000 Presidents Cup competing against international stars. Unfortunately back injuries eventually curtailed his playing career but couldn’t diminish his impact on the sport. He transitioned into broadcasting and mentorship roles where his insights continue shaping golf coverage and youth development.
PGA Tour Career Stats Table:
| Year | Wins | Top-10 Finishes | Highest World Ranking |
| 1999-2000 | 4 | 15 | 19th |
Notah Begay III – Golf Channel Contract & Media Involvement
In 2010 Notah Begay III made the career shift from touring professional to Golf Channel analyst bringing insider knowledge. His firsthand experience as a four-time PGA Tour winner gave his commentary authentic depth and credibility. He understood tournament pressure and strategy from living it which resonated strongly with viewers seeking genuine insights.
His 2013 move to full-time status with NBC Sports Group expanded his reach to millions more golf fans. Working across both Golf Channel and NBC Sports platforms he covers everything from regular tour events to majors. His coverage of the U.S. Open and Ryder Cup showcases his ability to analyze high-stakes moments with clarity and expertise.
Role with Golf Channel
Starting in 2010 Notah Begay III brought his tournament-tested perspective to Golf Channel’s studio and live coverage teams. His unique position as one of few Native American golfers who succeeded at elite levels added diversity. He regularly provides live event analysis alongside studio programming and special features highlighting junior golf development initiatives.
The Notah Begay III Junior Golf National Championship receives significant promotion through his Golf Channel work connecting youth programs to broadcast audiences. He explains strategy and highlights emerging talent while shining light on junior golf’s future stars. His commentary draws heavily from his playing days making technical discussions accessible to casual fans and seasoned players alike.
Partnership with NBC Sports
The 2013 NBC Sports partnership elevated Notah Begay III into mainstream sports media reaching audiences beyond dedicated golf enthusiasts. He analyzes crucial moments at major championships breaking down players’ decisions with authority gained from personal experience. Working major tournaments like the U.S. Open and Ryder Cup puts his insights on golf’s biggest stages.
His dual presence across Golf Channel and NBC Sports creates seamless coverage that serves hardcore fans and casual viewers equally. This integrated approach strengthens both networks’ golf programming while expanding his personal brand and influence. Fans recognize him across multiple platforms making him one of golf broadcasting’s most visible analysts today.
Sports Broadcasting and Analysis
Notah Begay III’s on-air work stands out for its thoughtful detail-oriented approach combining technical skills with mental game insights. He frequently references his own playing experiences to explain how professionals handle pressure and make strategic choices. Recognition as one of the top 100 sports educators in the country validates his teaching approach and communication skills.
Beyond tournament coverage he mentors junior golfers and actively works to boost diversity throughout professional golf. His broadcasting style prioritizes education over entertainment though he delivers both effectively during live coverage. He focuses on fundamentals and storytelling that help audiences understand not just what happens but why it matters.
Broadcasting Impact Table:
| Area | Details |
| Event Coverage | PGA Tour, U.S. Open, Ryder Cup, Junior Golf |
| Signature Style | Data-driven analysis, player perspective, diversity focus |
| Off-air Work | Junior Championship, program development |
Notah Begay III Salary and Compensation
As a Golf Channel and NBC Sports analyst he earns an average annual salary of approximately $112,300 according to industry reports. This compensation places him among the better-paid golf analysts reflecting his experience and audience appeal. His playing credentials and communication skills justify earnings that exceed many analysts without tour-winning pedigrees.
Beyond base salary he benefits from special assignment fees and long-term media contracts that provide financial stability. His total compensation package likely includes performance bonuses tied to ratings and audience engagement metrics. These multiple income streams from broadcasting contribute significantly to his overall net worth and financial security today.
Notah Begay III Net Worth and Financial Profile
Notah Begay III’s estimated net worth of $5 million reflects diverse income sources accumulated over decades of work. His PGA Tour earnings provided the foundation but his media career and business ventures built lasting wealth. Unlike many former tour players who struggle post-retirement he successfully diversified his financial portfolio early and strategically.
His wealth includes broadcasting contracts with Golf Channel and NBC Sports plus entrepreneurial projects like KivaSun Foods. Real estate holdings and investment income supplement his active earnings creating financial stability independent of any single revenue source. This smart diversification allows him to pursue philanthropic work through his foundation without compromising personal financial security.
Current Net Worth Assessment
Financial analysts estimate Notah Begay III’s net worth at approximately $5 million based on public records and industry knowledge. This figure accounts for PGA Tour prize money accumulated during his playing years plus subsequent media income. His business ventures and golf course design projects contribute moderate amounts while philanthropic activities represent charitable outflows rather than income.
His financial profile shows stability with consistent broadcasting salary providing reliable annual income supplemented by project-based consulting fees. The $5 million net worth places him comfortably among successful former tour players who transitioned into media careers. His diversified approach to wealth building ensures financial security while funding his passion projects in Native American communities.
Revenue Source Table:
| Revenue Source | Estimated Contribution |
| PGA Tour Earnings | Moderate |
| Broadcasting Salary | High |
| Business Ventures | Moderate |
| Philanthropy | Charitable work |
Earnings from Golf and Media
His four PGA Tour victories between 1999-2000 generated significant prize money that launched his financial foundation early in life. Tournament finishes and endorsement deals during his playing career provided steady income before injuries forced career adjustments. Today his $112,300 annual analyst salary from Golf Channel and NBC Sports represents his primary active income stream.
Special assignment bonuses for major championship coverage and studio appearance fees supplement his base broadcasting salary substantially. Comparing his playing career earnings to accumulated media income shows how broadcasting has become his larger long-term earner. This transition from tournament winnings to stable media compensation demonstrates successful career evolution and financial planning acumen.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
KivaSun Foods produces bison-based products promoting healthy eating aligned with Notah Begay III’s cultural values and wellness advocacy. The company targets Native American communities and health-conscious consumers seeking sustainable nutritious protein sources nationwide. This business venture generates revenue while supporting his broader mission of improving indigenous health outcomes through better nutrition.
NB3 Consulting provides tribal development services including economic planning and wellness strategies for indigenous communities across America. The consulting firm leverages his reputation and networks to help tribes navigate complex development challenges and opportunities. These entrepreneurial ventures broaden his financial profile while staying true to his commitment empowering Native populations economically and physically.
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Philanthropy and Social Impact
The Notah Begay III Foundation focuses on improving health and wellness for Native American youth through sports and education programs. Golf clinics and fitness events organized by the foundation combat high rates of diabetes and obesity plaguing indigenous communities. Wellness education programs teach kids about nutrition and physical activity creating healthier lifestyle habits from young ages.
By 2023 the foundation’s assets exceeded $13 million demonstrating both successful fundraising and prudent financial management over the years. This philanthropic work enhances his legacy far beyond any net worth calculation or personal financial achievements. His commitment to giving back through the foundation shows that his success measures in community impact not just dollars accumulated.
Personal Life and Legacy
Notah Ryan Begay III was born September 14 1972 in Albuquerque, New Mexico where his family roots run deep. He married Apryl Begay and together they’ve built a close family life supporting each other through career transitions. As the third generation carrying his family name he often credits his family’s encouragement for his achievements.
His personal story intertwines with his professional accomplishments creating a legacy larger than tournament victories or broadcasting success. As a role model for minority athletes he demonstrates that cultural pride and professional excellence complement rather than conflict. His journey from New Mexico to national prominence inspires young athletes especially those from underrepresented communities seeking their own paths.
Family and Personal Background
Born Notah Ryan Begay III he carries forward his family’s legacy as a third-generation namesake with deep pride. His wife Apryl Begay provides strong partnership supporting his various professional and philanthropic endeavors throughout their marriage. He’s related to professional soccer player Madison Hammond adding another accomplished athlete to his extended family tree in American sports.
Albuquerque remains central to his identity despite national fame and opportunities that could’ve pulled him away from home. His family encouraged both his athletic pursuits and educational achievements creating balanced foundation for future success. The Begay name represents more than personal identity; it symbolizes family legacy and cultural heritage he actively honors today.
Personal Details Table:
| Detail | Information |
| Name | Notah Ryan Begay III |
| Birthdate | September 14, 1972 |
| Spouse | Apryl Begay |
| Notable Relative | Madison Hammond |
| Hometown | Albuquerque, New Mexico |
Cultural Heritage and Advocacy
His dual Navajo and Pueblo heritage makes him one of few Native Americans achieving elite success on the PGA Tour. He speaks frequently about his background’s importance and actively seeks opportunities supporting Native American youth through mentorship programs. Working to preserve the Navajo language and promote indigenous education he uses his platform amplifying Native voices nationwide.
His golf career brought crucial attention to Native American athletes who historically faced limited representation in professional sports. Through foundation work and golf camps and speaking engagements he empowers Native communities with resources and inspiration. His advocacy extends beyond words into action funding programs that create tangible opportunities for indigenous youth across America.
Health Challenges and Recovery
In 2014 Notah Begay III suffered a frightening heart attack at just age 41 that changed his entire life perspective. That health scare motivated him to become an advocate for heart health awareness especially targeting Native American communities. After recovery he implemented major dietary changes and exercise modifications prioritizing wellness over everything else in daily life.
He discusses his experience openly urging others particularly Native Americans facing higher heart disease risks to monitor their health proactively. His transparency about recovery struggles and lifestyle adjustments makes him a credible wellness advocate beyond just theoretical knowledge. The heart attack transformed him from athlete to health educator using personal experience teaching others about prevention and recovery.
Golf Course Design and Development
Notah Begay III launched NB3 Consulting in 2002 to manage his golf course design projects across the United States. His design philosophy balances modern layouts with community impact creating courses that serve both serious golfers and local populations. He focuses on respecting natural landscapes while building challenging courses that test players at every skill level appropriately.
His playing experience informs design decisions as he understands what makes courses both playable and strategically interesting from professional perspective. The courses he’s developed earn recognition for thoughtful layouts that incorporate cultural themes and environmental sensitivity into their designs. This work extends his golf legacy beyond playing and broadcasting into permanent physical landmarks that serve communities for generations.
Signature Golf Course Projects
Sequoyah National opened in 2009 and Golf Magazine immediately named it the second-best new golf course in America. Firekeeper Golf Course debuted in 2010 quickly becoming the top-rated place to play in the entire state of Kansas. Sewailo Golf Club opened in 2013 earning praise for design excellence and cultural significance honoring indigenous heritage through its layout.
Dallas National Golf Club established in 2002 represents championship-level architecture that attracts serious golfers seeking premium playing experiences. These courses share common threads including playability for various skill levels and respect for natural terrain and cultural awareness. His portfolio demonstrates that great golf course design can simultaneously challenge elite players and serve broader community recreational needs effectively.
Golf Course Projects Table:
| Golf Course | Year Opened | Notable Recognition |
| Sequoyah National | 2009 | #2 New Course (Golf Magazine) |
| Firekeeper Golf Course | 2010 | #1 Best Place to Play in Kansas |
| Sewailo Golf Club | 2013 | Cultural significance praised |
| Dallas National Golf Club | 2002 | Championship-level architecture |
Playing Style and Techniques
Notah Begay III built his reputation on precision and strategy rather than pure power off the tee like many contemporaries. His creative shot-making and smart course management allowed him to compete effectively against longer hitters throughout his career. Understanding angles and percentages he played chess while others played checkers on demanding PGA Tour layouts week after week.
His strategic approach now informs his broadcasting analysis as he explains why professionals make specific decisions during tournament play. Teaching junior golfers through his programs he emphasizes fundamentals and course management over simply hitting balls far and straight. His playing style proves that intelligence and creativity can overcome physical advantages when applied consistently under competitive pressure situations.
Putting Techniques
Notah Begay III developed a revolutionary ambidextrous putting approach rarely seen among professional golfers at elite levels. For right-to-left breaking putts he used his right hand but switched to left-handed putting when balls broke left-to-right. This unconventional technique gave him superior control reading greens and adjusting his stroke to match each situation perfectly.
His willingness to innovate with putting techniques demonstrated the creative thinking that characterized his entire competitive career and philosophy. Analysts still discuss his putting method for its boldness and effectiveness despite breaking traditional coaching and conventional tour player approaches. For young golfers his style reminds them that going against the grain sometimes produces better results than following crowds blindly.
Putting Technique Table:
| Handedness | Break Direction | Usage |
| Right-handed | Right-to-left putts | Primary method |
| Left-handed | Left-to-right putts | Alternative approach |
Other Interests and Activities
Beyond golf he actively supports youth soccer programs especially those serving young athletes from diverse and underserved backgrounds. He backs girls’ sports initiatives aligning with growth of leagues like the National Women’s Soccer League nationwide. His vision encompasses multi-sport development recognizing that athletics teach character and leadership skills applicable beyond any single game.
His varied interests connect directly to his foundation’s comprehensive approach toward youth development through multiple athletic pathways not just golf. Soccer and other sports complement golf programming in his view creating well-rounded young people who understand teamwork and dedication. This holistic perspective reflects his own multi-sport background at Albuquerque Academy where he played basketball and soccer alongside golf.
Involvement in Soccer
He funds youth soccer clinics across various states targeting communities where sports resources remain scarce or nonexistent for kids. His girls’ sports engagement includes partnerships with NWSL programs promoting female athletic participation and leadership development through sport. The clinics emphasize teamwork and healthy habits over pure competition teaching life skills that extend far beyond soccer fields.
Local community members volunteer as coaches helping deliver programs that reach kids ages 8-16 in underserved neighborhoods and tribal lands. These efforts open athletic opportunities in places where organized sports previously seemed inaccessible to most young people. His soccer advocacy demonstrates that his commitment to youth development encompasses multiple sports not just the game that made him famous.
Soccer Outreach Table:
| Area | Details |
| Youth Soccer Clinics | Various states |
| Focus Age Group | Ages 8-16 |
| Girls’ Sports | NWSL partnerships |
| Coaches | Local community volunteers |
Community and Educational Initiatives
The Notah Begay III Foundation runs comprehensive programs combining golf instruction with nutrition workshops and fitness camps for holistic development. Wellness education targets health issues including diabetes and obesity that disproportionately affect Native American populations across the country. By 2023 the foundation’s assets reached over $13 million supporting expanded programming and increased reach into tribal communities nationwide.
Partnerships with experienced coaches and community leaders and schools provide kids with guidance both on and off the course. This approach delivers long-term impact rather than one-time events creating sustained support systems for Native youth seeking better futures. The foundation represents his most significant legacy beyond personal achievements showing his commitment to lifting entire communities through education and wellness.
Notable Incidents and Recognition
In 2000 Notah Begay III faced serious legal trouble following a DUI arrest after crashing into a parked car outside an Albuquerque bar. The court sentenced him to seven days in jail which he served while confronting the consequences of his poor decision. He didn’t hide from what happened but addressed it transparently and discussed lessons learned from that difficult experience.
That incident became a turning point shaping his approach to mentorship and public speaking in subsequent years about personal responsibility. He now advocates against drunk driving encouraging athletes and young people to make safe choices and learn from others’ mistakes. His willingness to discuss this low point honestly rather than burying it demonstrates character and genuine concern for helping others avoid similar situations.
DUI Incident
Police arrested him after the crash outside the Albuquerque establishment leading to his conviction and brief incarceration in 2000. He spoke openly about the DUI without making excuses or minimizing what happened during that regrettable evening years ago. The experience taught him hard lessons about judgment and consequences that he now shares freely with audiences seeking his guidance.
His subsequent advocacy work warns about drunk driving dangers using his own story as cautionary tale for athletes and youth nationwide. According to various interviews the incident significantly influenced how he approaches his role as mentor and community leader today. Rather than defining his career negatively it became an opportunity for growth and teaching others through transparent honest discussion.
Awards and Honors
Recognition as one of the top 100 sports educators in the country validates his teaching approach and communication skills beyond golf. He earned All-American honors three times at Stanford and won four times on the PGA Tour establishing playing credentials. His broadcasting work has received industry praise for insight and professionalism elevating golf coverage quality across networks.
Beyond individual accolades he’s recognized for leadership in Native American sports development creating pathways for indigenous athletes across multiple sports. His multifaceted contributions span playing achievements and media excellence and community service creating a legacy much larger than trophies. These awards acknowledge someone whose impact extends far beyond personal accomplishments into meaningful change for underrepresented communities nationwide.
Career Highlights Table:
| Accomplishment | Details |
| PGA Tour Wins | 4 victories |
| All-American | Stanford honors |
| Top Educators | Top 100 nationally |
| Broadcasting | Golf Channel analyst since 2013 |
| Foundation Work | Native American youth development |
Conclusion
Notah Begay III’s journey from PGA Tour champion to respected Golf Channel analyst showcases remarkable career evolution and cultural impact. His $5 million net worth reflects smart diversification across broadcasting, business ventures, and golf course design projects that continue generating income. More importantly his work through the Notah Begay III Foundation demonstrates commitment to Native American communities that transcends personal financial success.
His legacy extends beyond tournament victories or broadcasting contracts into meaningful change for indigenous youth seeking healthier futures and athletic opportunities. From his innovative putting techniques to his philanthropic work he’s consistently broken barriers and challenged conventions throughout his career. Follow his continued work in media and foundation initiatives to see how one person can impact an entire sport and community.
FAQ Section
What is Notah Begay III’s current net worth in 2025?
Notah Begay III’s net worth is estimated at approximately $5 million in 2025. This includes PGA Tour earnings, broadcasting salary from Golf Channel and NBC Sports, and income from business ventures like KivaSun Foods and NB3 Consulting.
How much does Notah Begay III make as a Golf Channel analyst?
He earns an average annual salary of approximately $112,300 as a Golf Channel and NBC Sports analyst. His compensation reflects his experience as a four-time PGA Tour winner and his credibility in sports broadcasting.
When did Notah Begay III join the Golf Channel?
Notah Begay III joined the Golf Channel as an analyst in 2010 after transitioning from his playing career. In 2013 he expanded to full-time status with NBC Sports Group covering major championships.
How many PGA Tour wins does Notah Begay III have?
He has four PGA Tour victories all earned between 1999-2000. He won twice at the Reno-Tahoe Open and twice at the Greater Hartford Open during his competitive playing career.
What is the Notah Begay III Foundation?
The Notah Begay III Foundation focuses on health and wellness for Native American youth through golf programs and fitness education. By 2023 the foundation had assets exceeding $13 million supporting programs fighting diabetes and obesity.
What businesses does Notah Begay III own?
He founded KivaSun Foods which produces bison-based products promoting healthy eating for Native communities. He also runs NB3 Consulting providing tribal development services and economic planning for indigenous populations.
What golf courses has Notah Begay III designed?
Through NB3 Consulting he designed Sequoyah National (2009), Firekeeper Golf Course (2010), Sewailo Golf Club (2013), and Dallas National Golf Club (2002). Sequoyah National was named the second-best new course by Golf Magazine.
