Bert Bertelkamp retiring after 26 years as Tennessee Basketball radio analyst

Money is running out for Tennessee Basketball at the end of the season. Bert Bertelkamp announced his retirement Friday after 26 years as the radio color analyst for the Vols alongside Bob Kesling. 

Kesling announced in November that he would be retiring following the end of Tennessee men’s basketball season after his own 25-year run as the Voice of the Vols.

Bertelkamp, a former Tennessee guard and three-year starter for the Vols, joined Kesling for the 1999-2000 season and quickly became known for his popular catchphrase “Money!” along with “Talk to me!” after the Vols made big shots. 

VFL and fan-favorite @VolNetwork analyst Bert Bertelkamp will retire at the conclusion of the season

Bertelkamp has called Tennessee Basketball games alongside Bob Kesling since 1999, covering some of the biggest moments in program history

Read more → https://t.co/BP9sFzLRN2 pic.twitter.com/hNSxXZuO4s

— Tennessee Basketball (@Vol_Hoops) March 7, 2025

“Being the Vol Network’s color analyst for men’s basketball the last 26 years has been an honor and a privilege,” Bertelkamp said in a press release Friday. “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.”

Bert Bertelkamp: ‘I’m privileged to thank our fans, as their support has been inspiring and much appreciated’

Bertelkamp played in 110 games over four seasons at Tennessee from 1976 to 1980, finishing his career with 332 assists, including 154 during the 179-80 season. He still holds the NCAA Tournament and Tennessee program single-game assist record with 16 against Maryland on March 8, 1980.

He helped Tennessee win the 1976-77 regular-season championship, the 1979 SEC Tournament championship and was part of three NCAA Tournament teams. 

Bertelkamp is a Knoxville native who attended Bearden High School. 

“It is difficult to put into words what Bert Bertelkamp means to the University of Tennessee,” Steve Early, vice president and general manager of the Vol Network, said in the press release. “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.” 

Mike Keith announced as new ‘Voice of the Vols’ in January

It was announced in January that Mike Keith would succeed Kesling as the new Voice of the Vols beginning with the 2025 football season. The former voice of the Tennessee Titans will call Tennessee Football and Tennessee Basketball. 

Keith’s color analysts for the two sports have not yet been announced. 

“One of the main reasons I have lasted 26 years is my partner, Bob Kesling,” Bertelkamp said in the press release. “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!”