Bert Bertelkamp, Vols Hoops Analyst Retires

Bert Bertelkamp announces retirement

Bert Bertelkamp, a beloved figure in Tennessee basketball, announced his retirement Friday, after serving as the radio color analyst for the University of Tennessee men’s basketball team for 26 years.

 His tenure with the Vol Network, spanning from the 1999-2000 season through the 2024-25 campaign, made him a fan favorite known for his energetic commentary and iconic catchphrases like “Money!” and “Talk to me!”—exclamations that punctuated big plays and thrilled listeners across Vol Nation.

Bertelkamp’s broadcasting career began alongside Bob Kesling, the “Voice of the Vols,” who also announced his retirement earlier in the season, set for April 2025 after 25 years. The duo became one of the most celebrated broadcast teams in Tennessee history, calling some of the program’s most memorable moments, including four SEC regular-season championships, one SEC Tournament title, 15 NCAA Tournament appearances, eight Sweet 16 runs, and two Elite Eight trips. Their final home game together at Food City Center was scheduled for March 8, 2025, against South Carolina, with plans to continue through the postseason.

Reflecting on his time behind the mic, Bertelkamp said, “Being the Vol Network’s color analyst for men’s basketball the last 26 years has been an honor and a privilege. 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.” He credited Kesling’s professionalism as a key reason for his longevity, calling him “second to none” and thanking his family, the Vol Network, the basketball program, and the fans for their support.

Bertelkamp’s retirement marks the end of an era, coinciding with Kesling’s exit, prompting a full overhaul of the Vol Network’s basketball broadcast team. Mike Keith, formerly of the Tennessee Titans, will take over as the Voice of the Vols for both football and basketball starting in 2025, though his basketball color analyst remains unannounced.