Zakai Zeigler, the dynamic point guard for the Tennessee Volunteers, embodies the ethos that “sitting is quitting.” His relentless drive and refusal to back down have been pivotal in his rise as a standout player in college basketball.
Born on August 2, 2002, in Long Island, New York, Zeigler’s basketball journey began in the competitive circuits of the Northeast. He honed his skills at Immaculate Conception High School in Montclair, New Jersey, where he averaged 20.3 points and 4.6 assists per game. Despite his impressive stats, Zeigler was considered a three-star recruit, eventually committing to the University of Tennessee over offers from Minnesota, Boston College, and Wichita State.
In his freshman season (2021–22) with the Volunteers, Zeigler made an immediate impact, averaging 8.8 points per game and shooting 35% from beyond the arc. His tenacity on defense and ability to orchestrate the offense earned him a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team.
The following season, Zeigler’s role expanded as he averaged 10.7 points and 5.4 assists per game. However, his sophomore campaign was cut short due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) sustained in a game against Arkansas. This injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season, posing a significant challenge for the young athlete.
True to his resilient nature, Zeigler attacked his rehabilitation with unwavering determination. By the start of the 2023–24 season, he returned to the court, initially with limited playing time. As the season progressed, his minutes increased, and he regained his pre-injury form. His efforts culminated in being named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year, averaging 11.8 points, 6.1 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game.
Zeigler’s influence extends beyond his on-court performance. During his recovery, he remained an integral part of the team by sitting beside head coach Rick Barnes during games to analyze play strategies and provide insights. This experience not only kept him engaged but also enhanced his understanding of the game from a coaching perspective.
His leadership qualities have been particularly evident as he stepped into a senior role alongside teammate Jahmai Mashack. The duo has been instrumental in guiding younger players, fostering team cohesion, and maintaining the high standards of Tennessee basketball. Their commitment to leadership was immediate, taking charge right after the team’s Elite Eight loss to Purdue.
Zeigler’s relentless work ethic and refusal to quit, regardless of the circumstances, have earned him admiration from coaches, teammates, and fans alike. Coach Rick Barnes has often praised Zeigler’s fearless approach and his intrinsic drive to improve continually. Barnes once remarked, “He’s so hard on himself. He just wants to get it right all the time. And when things aren’t going well, he’s going to bear down more.”
Looking ahead, Zeigler’s journey serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that setbacks can be transformed into comebacks through perseverance and an unyielding spirit. As he continues to lead the Volunteers, his mantra that “sitting is quitting” will undoubtedly propel him and his team toward greater achievements in the seasons to come.