WILLFUNK >>

<< NCAA MEN’S FINAL FOUR 2023 >>

CBS SPORTS - LIVE BROADCAST

CBS SPORTS - LIVE BROADCAST

CBS SPORTS - LIVE BROADCAST

CBS SPORTS - LIVE BROADCAST

CBS SPORTS - LIVE BROADCAST

I was thrilled when CBS Sports approached me to design a contemporary, high-energy set for the NCAA Men’s Final Four. The goal was to create a visually stunning set that not only looked great on camera but also showcased the scale and excitement of the Final Four. To achieve this, I began by working on initial concept renders and designs, experimenting with unique configurations and allowing my imagination to run wild. My goal was to create a visually stunning set that was also functional and practical for filming.

After the concept was approved, I focused on the technical aspects of the project. I created final lighting plots and rigging specifications to ensure that the set looked its best on camera. To give the client a preview of what was to come, I created a high-quality pre-visualization using Unreal Engine. This allowed me to showcase the set's lighting and camera moves in real-time, which really helped to bring the whole project to life.

Working closely with the CBS graphics team was also a highlight for me. Together, we collaborated on creating a cohesive look that fit with the overall vision for the project. We bounced ideas off each other, resulting in truly unique content design.

When it was time for the shoot, my team and I were on hand to operate the lighting and video. It was amazing to see everything come together, and we were all incredibly proud of the final result. We managed to capture the excitement and energy of the Final Four in a truly engaging way, and the client was thrilled with the outcome. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience from start to finish.

I'd like to express my appreciation to Shawn Robbins and the team at CBS Sports for going big and making this year's NCAA Men's Final Four a SLAM DUNK!!

WF - UNREAL ENGINE PRE-VIS

WF - VECTORWORKS PLANS

WF - VECTORWORKS PLANS

WF - INPUT PIXEL MAP

WF - BTS

CBS SPORTS - LIVE BROADCAST

<< SPECIAL THANKS!! >>

Client: CBS Sports
Director: Shawn Robbins
Production Manager: Taj Lewis

DP / Camera: Paul Kremer
DP/ Movi: Kyle Meek
AC: Steve Cates
AC: Tom Atwell
Audio: Chris Bell
DIT: McKay Johnson

Graphics: Komal Bhukhanwala
Graphics: Luis Montijo
Graphics: Andrew Sherman

Midwest Grip & Lighting: Dale Emminger
Midwest Grip & Lighting: Matt Ulmer
Midwest Grip & Lighting: Brandon Darnay
Midwest Grip & Lighting: Tom Pielemeier
Midwest Grip & Lighting: Jeremy Whitcomb
Midwest Grip & Lighting: Neil Burns
Midwest Grip & Lighting: Jake Heim

ParTech Lighting: Dave Groh
ParTech Lighting: Jeffrey Brown
ParTech Lighting: Tony Keith
ParTech Lighting: Dawson Butterfield
ParTech Lighting: Matthew Lipinski
ParTech Lighting: Andy Hillman

Location: NRG Stadium - Houston, TX

Set Design / Lighting Design: Will Funk
Lighting Assistant: Weston Funk