Amidst coaching changes and a varied amount of wins and losses, there has been one constant: Bob Kesling.
The “Voice of the Vols” for 26 years is opting for a change of pace after the 2024-25 Tennessee basketball season, retiring from a career that earned him a place in the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame.
“When my two girls were growing up, I missed a lot,” Kesling said. “Already with my four grandkids, ball games and other events. We just learned we have another grandson on the way, coming in April.
“I think it is time for me to be a full-time grandad.”
Kesling ends a successful run with Vol Network — a place he began working at when he was still a student in 1974. He was a walk-on fullback for Bill Battle, competing against Notre Dame and Alabama in freshman football. He transitioned into a broadcasting role after that freshman season, working with the legendary John Ward.
Kesling sat next to Ward for 15 seasons, acting as his spotter while learning how to be a broadcaster.
“He would tell us, ‘I don’t need you to be excited about the game, but I need you prepared,’” Kesling said.
He had dinners with the legendary Lindsey Nelson after he completed his broadcasting career, gaining wisdom and reflecting on his many stories at the old Regas Restaurant on 17th Street.
“He told me, ‘Once you get in this business, you’re going to get one break. Are you ready for the break? Have you worked hard enough?’” Kesling said. “And I tried to work hard every day because of the advice Lindsey Nelson gave me.”
Working with WIVK, WBIR, calling games on Jefferson Pilot and being the voice of the Lady Vols for Pat Summitt’s first six NCAA national championships prepared Kesling to become the “Voice of the Vols.” His break came in 1999.
Kesling got a call from Doug Dickey, wanting him to take over the position vacated by John Ward. The draw to return to his alma mater was too good to pass up.
“He said, ‘Just go out and do the best job you can and there’s only one person you got to please, and that’s me. Keep me happy. You’ll be fine,’” Kesling said. “I’ve tried to keep coach Dickey happy for the past 26 years. I hope I have.”
Kesling evaluated if he had the passion to continue after basketball season over the last five years. With another grandson on the way, Kesling couldn’t guarantee he would be in it for years to come.
The decision was mutual between Kesling and the Vol Network and didn’t include any thoughts about his health. It was a family decision, opening up the coveted position again after 26 years.
“I’ll miss being in the booth, being in a winning locker room, watching the team run through the ‘T,’” Kesling said. “But I will have more time with my family.”
