KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Bert Bertelkamp, the longtime radio color analyst for the University of Tennessee’s men’s basketball games, has announced his retirement following the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. Bertelkamp has served in this role for 26 years, providing analysis and commentary alongside play-by-play announcer Bob Kesling, who is also set to retire in April. The duo has been a staple of the Vol Network since the 1999-2000 season, becoming the familiar voice behind some of the most memorable moments in Tennessee basketball history.
“Serving as the Vol Network's color analyst for men's basketball over the past 26 years has been an incredible honor and privilege,” Bertelkamp said. “I have been fortunate to meet many wonderful people and form numerous lifelong relationships. This experience has been truly rewarding, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity.”
Renowned for his enthusiastic catchphrases such as “Money” and “Talk to me,” Bertelkamp has been a fixture during an era of remarkable success for Tennessee basketball. During his tenure, the program has achieved four SEC regular-season titles, one SEC Tournament championship, 15 NCAA Tournament appearances, eight Sweet 16 berths, and two Elite Eight appearances.
A former player for the Volunteers, Bertelkamp was a guard from the 1976-77 season through the 1979-80 season. Over his four-year collegiate career, he played in 110 games and accumulated 332 assists. His 16 assists against Maryland on March 8, 1980, remain the program’s record for the most assists in an NCAA Tournament game. He was a key contributor to Tennessee’s 1976-77 SEC regular-season championship and the 1979 SEC Tournament title, participating in three NCAA Tournament appearances during his playing career.
“Bert Bertelkamp’s impact on the University of Tennessee is immeasurable,” said Steve Early, Vice President and General Manager of the Vol Network. “His legacy is firmly established, not only as a beloved broadcaster but also as a player and supporter of the program. Bert’s passion for Tennessee basketball has been evident in every broadcast, and his insightful and entertaining analysis made him a fan favorite and an ideal partner for Bob Kesling. Together, they will be remembered as one of the most iconic broadcast teams in Tennessee history.”
Bertelkamp’s ties to Tennessee basketball run deep. His father, Hank Bertelkamp, is the second-oldest living Tennessee basketball letter winner, having played for the Volunteers from 1950 to 1953 and serving as team captain in his final season. In 2004, Bert and Hank Bertelkamp established the Bertelkamp Basketball Scholarship Endowment Fund, which continues to support the program. The men’s basketball offices at Food City Center bear Hank Bertelkamp’s name in recognition of his contributions.
Beyond his involvement with the university, Bert Bertelkamp is the president of Bertelkamp Automation, Inc., a Knoxville-based industrial automation solutions provider founded by his father. The company remains a family-operated business, with Bert’s son, Hank, also working there. The Bertelkamp family is actively engaged in philanthropic efforts, supporting organizations such as the United Way of Greater Knoxville and the McNabb Center.
Expressing gratitude, Bertelkamp acknowledged the support of his wife, Sheila, their children, Brownie, Lillie, and Hank, and his son-in-law, Grant. He also paid tribute to his late mother, Jane, and expressed appreciation for his father’s role in introducing him to basketball. Additionally, Bertelkamp extended thanks to his longtime broadcast partner, Bob Kesling, the Vol Network team, the University of Tennessee basketball program, and the fans.
The final broadcast for Bertelkamp and Kesling at Food City Center is scheduled for Saturday at 2 p.m., when fourth-ranked Tennessee (24-6, 11-6 SEC) hosts South Carolina. The university will honor both broadcasters at halftime, recognizing their remarkable contributions to Tennessee basketball.