Tennessee Basketball radio broadcasters Bob Kesling and Bert Bertelkamp had quite the memorable moment in the Food City Center over the weekend, as they were on the call for No. 5 Tennessee’s thrilling 79-76 victory over No. 6 Alabama in the third-to-last game of the regular season.
Tennessee and Alabama traded punches throughout the game with 10 lead changes and nine ties. Still, it was a late-game defensive sequence and a buzzer-beating three-pointer for senior guard Jahmai Mashack that carried the Vols across the finish line with the win.
Here’s how Kesling and Bertelkamp called the game’s biggest moments and the final play:
Bob and Bert were at their best for the best college basketball game of the year!
📻@VolNetwork pic.twitter.com/aOVvsxQ9wH
— Tennessee Athletics (@Vol_Sports) March 3, 2025
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Here’s a look at how ESPN’s TV broadcast of Dick Vitale, Jimmy Dykes, and Karl Ravech called the play:
JAHMAI MASHACK WINS IT AT THE BUZZER 🚨
ARE YOU SERIOUS?! 😱 @Vol_Hoops https://t.co/tiVVb182Zf pic.twitter.com/5gmDpJrHdU
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) March 1, 2025
In November, Tennessee announced that Kesling would be retiring at the end of the basketball season after a 26-year career as the Voice of the Vols.
“Bob’s influence has been remarkable, touching so many lives as the Voice of the Vols and through his heartfelt dedication as a mentor and leader in our Knoxville community for over 50 years,” Tennessee Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Danny White said is a statement. “He embodies the true spirit of someone who has given his all for Tennessee. As an icon in the broadcasting industry, we are deeply appreciative of the professionalism he brings to Tennessee Athletics each time he takes the microphone. His contributions resonate with all of us here on Rocky Top and we cannot thank him enough for everything he has done.”
Kesling will be replaced by former Voice of the Titans Mike Keith starting with Tennessee Football this fall.
For more on Kesling’s retirement, check out Rocky Top Insider’s coverage here.
