Bert Bertelkamp’s voice has been a staple of Tennessee basketball for over two decades. He provided fans with insight, passion, and memorable catchphrases. After 26 seasons as the radio color analyst for the Vol Network, Bertelkamp has officially announced that this season will be his last.
Bert Bertelkamp Announces Retirement After 26 Years
His departure marks the end of an era, especially as his longtime partner, Bob Kesling, is also set to retire in April. Since the 1999-2000 season, Bertelkamp has been a familiar voice alongside Kesling. They delivered in-depth analysis and colorful commentary on Tennessee basketball games.
BREAKING: Vol Network color analyst Bert Bertelkamp announced that he will retire after this season.
After 26 years of being broadcast partners, Bob Kesling and Bertelkamp are going out together.
What a moment for them to call this special game together, with a final… https://t.co/0kqarHJgvz
— Emilie Rae Cochrane (@EmCochranetv) March 7, 2025
Reflecting on his time in broadcasting, Bertelkamp expressed his deep appreciation for the opportunity.
“Being the Vol Network’s color analyst for men’s basketball for the last 26 years has been an honor and a privilege,” he said.
“I have been blessed to meet many great people and have had the opportunity to develop numerous lifelong relationships. The bottom line is it has been a wonderful experience, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity.”
Bertelkamp’s voice has been synonymous with Tennessee basketball’s most thrilling moments. His energetic calls, including signature phrases like “Money” and “Talk to me,” have made him a fan favorite. Throughout his tenure, he witnessed the program claim four SEC regular-season titles, one SEC Tournament championship, and 15 NCAA Tournament appearances, including eight Sweet 16 runs and two Elite Eight finishes.
Long before he became a broadcasting icon, Bertelkamp made his mark on the court as a player for the Volunteers. A Knoxville native and graduate of Bearden High School, he played guard for Tennessee from 1976-80.
He played 110 games as a three-year starter and dished out 332 assists, including a single-season career-high of 154 assists in his senior year. His 16 assists against Maryland in the 1980 NCAA Tournament remain the highest single-game total in Tennessee tournament history.
During his playing career, Bertelkamp helped lead the Volunteers to multiple championships, including the 1976-77 SEC regular-season title and the 1979 SEC Tournament crown. His contributions on and off the court have cemented his legacy as a key figure in Tennessee basketball history.
Steve Early, Vice President and General Manager of the Vol Network, emphasized Bertelkamp’s lasting impact.
“It is difficult to put into words what Bert Bertelkamp means to the University of Tennessee. His legacy is cemented for generations to come, not only as a beloved broadcaster but also as a player and donor.”
He added: “Bert’s passion for Tennessee basketball has been evident in every single broadcast he has ever been a part of. A true student of the game, Bert’s entertaining analysis has made him a fan favorite and the perfect partner for Bob Kesling. Those two will be remembered as one of the absolute best broadcast teams of all time. I am very proud Bob and Bert belong to the University of Tennessee and the Vol Network.”
Bertelkamp’s connection to Tennessee basketball runs deep, as his father, Hank Bertelkamp, is one of the program’s oldest living lettermen. A standout for the Volunteers from 1950-53, Hank served as a team captain during his senior season, averaging 14.3 points per game.
Together, Bert and Hank established the Bertelkamp Basketball Scholarship Endowment Fund in August 2004, ensuring future student-athletes receive opportunities to thrive in the program. In recognition of their contributions, the men’s basketball offices at Food City Center bear the Bertelkamp name.
Reflecting on an Unforgettable Career
As Bertelkamp prepares to step away from broadcasting, he expresses gratitude for those who have supported him along the way.
“I want to thank my lovely wife, Sheila, as well as my amazing children, Brownie, Lillie, and Hank, and my Vol-fanatic son-in-law, Grant, for their love and support over these many years. I’m so proud of them, and I couldn’t have asked for more,” he said.
“I’d also like to thank my father, Hank, for introducing me to the game of basketball and my late mother, Jane, who would be thrilled to know her son called UT basketball games for 26 years.”
Bertelkamp also credited his longtime partner, Bob Kesling, for helping make his journey so rewarding.
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“One of the main reasons I have lasted 26 years is my partner, Bob Kesling. I am thankful to Bob for allowing me to be his wingman. His professionalism and broadcasting ability are second to none. I want to thank all the kind folks at the Vol Network for their first-class treatment and friendship.
“Everyone has been awesome. I’d also like to thank the UT basketball program and all the players and coaches we have had the pleasure of covering. They have provided so many lasting memories. Lastly, I’m privileged to thank our fans, as their support has been inspiring and much appreciated. Thank you, Vol Nation!”
The legendary broadcasting duo will make their final call at Food City Center this Saturday at 2 p.m. when fourth-ranked Tennessee (24-6, 11-6 SEC) faces off against South Carolina. At halftime, Bertelkamp and Kesling will be honored for their immeasurable contributions to Tennessee basketball. It will be a fitting farewell for two voices that have defined an era of Vols basketball.
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