Bert Bertelkamp, the radio color analyst for University of Tennessee’s men’s basketball games for the past 26 years, announced Friday he will retire at the conclusion of the 2024-25 campaign.
Bertelkamp has worked alongside Bob Kesling, who will also retire in April, calling Tennessee basketball games for Vol Network since 1999-2000. The duo has provided the soundtrack to fans throughout the state—and beyond—for many of the biggest moments in the history of Tennessee basketball.
“Being the Vol Network’s color analyst for men’s basketball the last 26 years has been an honor and a privilege,” Bertelkamp 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.”
Known for his jubilant catchphrases such as “Money” and “Talk to me,” Bertelkamp has called games for many of the best teams in program history. His voice is linked to groups that totaled four SEC regular season titles and one SEC Tournament crown, as well as participated in 15 NCAA Tournaments, with eight Sweet 16 berths and two Elite Eight trips.
Bertelkamp played guard for Tennessee from 1976-77 to 1979-80. The three-year starter played in 110 games across his four seasons and amassed 332 assists, 154 of which came during the 1979-80 campaign in which he started all 29 games. His 16 assists against Maryland on March 8, 1980, still stand, by far, as the most in an NCAA Tournament game in program history.
A native of Knoxville, Tenn., and graduate of Bearden High School, Bertelkamp helped Tennessee win the 1976-77 SEC regular season championship and the 1979 SEC Tournament trophy, as well as earn three NCAA Tournament appearances.
“It is difficult to put into words what Bert Bertelkamp means to the University of Tennessee,” said Steve Early, Vice President and General Manager of the Vol Network. “His legacy is cemented for generations to come, not only as a beloved broadcaster, but also a player and donor. 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 father, Hank, is the second-oldest living Tennessee basketball letter winner. He played for the Volunteers from 1950-53, serving as a captain during his final season in which he averaged 14.3 points per game.
Bert and Hank together established in August 2004 the Bertelkamp Basketball Scholarship Endowment Fund, which stands to this day. The men’s basketball offices at Food City Center are named for Hank.
In addition, Hank (founder and chairman) and Bert (president) operate Bertelkamp Automation, Inc., a Knoxville-based industrial automation solutions provider, at which Bert’s son, Hank, also works. The company, helmed by the Bertelkamp family, is active in the community, giving back through the United Way of Greater Knoxville, the McNabb Center and other local charities.
“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,” Bertelkamp shared. “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.
“One of the main reasons I have lasted 26 years is my partner, Bob Kesling,” Bertelkamp added. “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!”
Bertelkamp and Kesling’s final broadcast at Food City Center will come Saturday at 2 p.m. when fourth-ranked Tennessee (24-6, 11-6 SEC) faces South Carolina. The two broadcasting icons will be recognized at halftime for their esteemed contributions to Tennessee basketball.
