I've seen too many matches where the first words out the commentators mouth was " I don't know anything about this player." Do your homework. Mention his sponsors.
To appeal to the masses pool needs better commentating; Earl included. Just because you used to play is irrelevant. Jordan and Bird couldn't excell while wearing suits. Joe Rogan's commentary could make the game mainstream. Know the players of the match and highlights of previous achievements...
I am just saying, at the very least, prior to getting behind the mic certain simple facts should be known: where they're from, past accomplishments, previous wins that tour and sponsors. "I don't know anything about him/her." should never be said.
Even if you once played the game at a HOF caliber is no excuse to mispronounce players names. You are asked to perform a task, and if unable or unprepared maybe decline. I would thourghly enjoy hearing more details about the shooters. Prolly not a bad idea to give their sponsors a shout out.
I moved to Indy almost 3 years ago but Steve and Lilly were running a bar in Garden City; had three or four bar boxes. Not alot of heavy hitters in MB but it was a pleasure watching him shoot when he would. Surely enjoyed the Johnny stories.