KNOXVILLE, TN – The Vol Network and Tennessee Athletics announced today that legendary broadcaster Bob Kesling will retire as the “Voice of the Vols” following the 2024-25 men’s basketball season. Kesling’s career spans over five decades, establishing him as a cherished figure within Tennessee athletics and as the longest-serving member in the Vol Network’s 75-year history.
Kesling has been a beloved part of the Vol Network since 1999, providing the play-by-play voice for Tennessee football and basketball to audiences across over 60 stations. A former University of Tennessee student and walk-on football player, Kesling’s journey in sports broadcasting began in 1974, and his contributions since then have left an indelible mark on Tennessee sports history.
“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,” said Tennessee Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Danny White. “He embodies the true spirit of someone who has given his all for Tennessee. His contributions resonate with all of us here on Rocky Top, and we cannot thank him enough.”
Kesling’s extensive career includes time with Lady Vols basketball, calling Pat Summitt’s first six national championships, and a successful tenure as Sports Director for WBIR-TV and WIVK Radio in Knoxville. He has also called games for networks like CBS, FOX, and the SEC Network and worked with the Knoxville Cherokees and the Nashville Sounds. This summer, Kesling was inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame in honor of his outstanding career.
Reflecting on Kesling’s impact, Vol Network Vice President and General Manager Steve Early shared, “Bob Kesling is a cornerstone in our proud 75-year history of the Vol Network. His unmatched versatility as a broadcaster is an advantage Tennessee fans have enjoyed for 50 years. To me, he personifies loyalty and what it means to be a big-time professional.”
Kesling’s achievements include four “Sportscaster of the Year” awards for Tennessee, as well as induction into both the Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame and the Tennessee Boys and Girls Club Hall of Fame. A devoted community member, Kesling serves on boards for Goodwill, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and the Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame.
“Bob Kesling has been the soundtrack to the memories of generations of Vols fans,” said Chancellor Donde Plowman. “From his calls of Pat Summitt’s championships to the 2022 football win over Alabama, he has cemented his place in Tennessee Athletics history. We are grateful that he chose to share his talents with all of us for the last three-plus decades.”
As Kesling prepares to step away, he leaves behind a legacy as one of the most respected voices in college sports broadcasting. The Vol Network and Tennessee Athletics look forward to celebrating his extraordinary career and contributions in the coming season.
