NOW VERIFIED: Knoxville, Tennessee Guard Zakai Zeigler of the University of Tennessee Volunteers has accomplished a rare feat in college basketball by earning both the coveted 2025 Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award in a spectacular display of dominance on the hardwood….

The 2025 college basketball season has witnessed a spectacular rise to prominence for University of Tennessee guard Zakai Zeigler. In a season filled with intense competition and remarkable performances, Zeigler has distinguished himself as one of the nation’s premier point guards. His excellence on both ends of the court has earned him two of the most prestigious individual awards in college basketball: the 2025 Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award.

Zakai Zeigler’s remarkable feats are not only a testament to his personal development and work ethic, but they also reflect the rise of Tennessee as a national powerhouse in the sport. As the Volunteers continue to make waves in the NCAA tournament and push toward a potential championship, Zeigler’s leadership and skills have become one of the cornerstones of their success. Earning both of these coveted awards in the same season is a rare achievement, and one that places Zeigler in the company of college basketball’s all-time greats.

This article takes a deep dive into Zeigler’s journey, his impact on Tennessee basketball, and the significance of these two prestigious awards.

The Bob Cousy Award: A Mark of Point Guard Excellence

The Bob Cousy Award is one of the most prestigious honors a college point guard can achieve. Named after the legendary Hall of Famer Bob Cousy, who revolutionized the point guard position during his time with the Boston Celtics, the award is given annually to the nation’s best point guard. It’s a reflection of not just statistical achievements but also leadership, playmaking ability, and overall impact on a team’s success.

When Zeigler was named the recipient of the 2025 Bob Cousy Award, it marked a career-defining moment. To claim this award, a point guard must possess exceptional court vision, the ability to orchestrate an offense, and the composure to run the game at an elite level. Zeigler checks all of these boxes, and more.

Playmaking Prowess and Court Vision

Zakai Zeigler’s playmaking ability has been one of the standout features of his game since he arrived at Tennessee. While he is known for his scoring and defensive tenacity, it’s his vision and creativity that truly set him apart as one of the nation’s best. Zeigler has the rare ability to see plays develop before they happen, often threading passes through tight windows that leave defenders helpless. Whether it’s an alley-oop to a leaping teammate, a pinpoint assist in transition, or a crafty pick-and-roll dish, Zeigler has proven to be an elite floor general.

This season, Zeigler has averaged over 7 assists per game, leading the Volunteers in that category. His ability to balance scoring with facilitating for others has been key to Tennessee’s offensive success. As the primary ball handler for the Volunteers, Zeigler has kept defenses guessing, constantly setting up teammates for high-percentage shots while also remaining a scoring threat himself. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions is what allowed him to stand out and ultimately earn the Bob Cousy Award.

Leadership and Decision-Making

Beyond his on-court skills, Zeigler’s leadership has been a defining aspect of his game this season. As a point guard, it’s essential to have the trust of your teammates, and Zeigler has earned that in spades. He commands respect from his fellow Vols, whether they’re veterans or freshmen. His calm demeanor, despite the high stakes of each game, has been a stabilizing force for Tennessee.

Zakai Zeigler’s decision-making has been impeccable, particularly in clutch moments. Whether it’s a critical possession late in a close game or managing the tempo in high-pressure environments, Zeigler has consistently made the right choice, whether to create a shot for himself or set up his teammates. His ability to manage the pace of the game while making others better is why he is widely regarded as the top point guard in college basketball this season.

The Wooden Award: A National Player of the Year Contender

The Wooden Award is considered the pinnacle of individual college basketball awards. Named after the legendary UCLA coach John Wooden, who led the Bruins to 10 NCAA championships in 12 years, the Wooden Award is presented to the nation’s most outstanding player. This prestigious honor is awarded based on a combination of individual statistics, team success, and impact on the game.

Being named a Midseason Wooden Award winner is a recognition of Zeigler’s dominance and his role in leading Tennessee to one of the best records in the country. It is a testament to his exceptional play on both ends of the floor, his consistency, and his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. While the Midseason Wooden Award is not the final vote, it solidifies Zeigler’s status as a frontrunner for the National Player of the Year award, which will be decided at the end of the season.

All-Around Excellence

What sets Zeigler apart as a Wooden Award contender is his ability to contribute across all aspects of the game. While many players can excel in one or two areas, Zeigler’s versatility makes him a unique and invaluable asset for the Volunteers.

On offense, Zeigler is an elite scorer, averaging 18.5 points per game. His ability to score both off the dribble and from beyond the arc makes him a dynamic threat. But what truly separates him from other scorers is his ability to do so efficiently. He has maintained a shooting percentage of over 45% from the field and a solid 38% from three-point range, numbers that reflect his ability to make smart shot selections and produce in key moments.

Defensively, Zeigler is a game-changer. Standing at 6 feet tall, he might not have the size of some of the other top guards in college basketball, but he more than makes up for it with his defensive instincts, quickness, and toughness. He’s a tenacious defender on the ball, able to lock down opposing point guards and disrupt offensive flow. His ability to pick pockets and create turnovers has allowed Tennessee to turn defense into offense, often leading to easy fast-break points.

In addition to his individual contributions, Zeigler’s impact on Tennessee’s team success has been undeniable. The Volunteers have one of the most potent offenses in the nation, and much of that success can be attributed to Zeigler’s leadership and playmaking ability. Under his guidance, Tennessee has been a top contender for a national championship, and Zeigler’s presence on the floor has kept the team playing at an elite level.

The Road to the Awards: Zeigler’s Growth and Development

Zakai Zeigler’s rise to the top of college basketball has been a story of hard work, determination, and continuous growth. Coming out of New York, Zeigler was a highly regarded prospect, but it wasn’t until he stepped onto the court for Tennessee that he began to truly showcase his potential. Over his first few seasons, Zeigler refined his game, becoming a more confident and well-rounded player with each passing year.

What makes Zeigler’s story so compelling is the fact that he’s worked tirelessly to improve every facet of his game. From adding strength to his frame to developing a more consistent jump shot, Zeigler has consistently worked on areas of his game that would allow him to compete at the highest level. It’s this dedication to self-improvement, combined with his natural talent, that has allowed him to become one of the most well-rounded players in college basketball today.

Tennessee’s Success and Zeigler’s Leadership

Under Zeigler’s leadership, Tennessee has emerged as one of the top teams in college basketball. The Volunteers have been ranked in the top 5 for much of the season, thanks to a balanced roster and strong performances from their star point guard. Zeigler’s ability to elevate the play of his teammates has been a driving force behind Tennessee’s success.

As the leader of the Volunteers, Zeigler has consistently delivered when the team has needed him the most. Whether it’s in high-pressure SEC matchups or national showcase games, Zeigler has been a steady presence for Tennessee, helping them stay focused on their ultimate goal of winning a national championship.

The Bigger Picture: Zeigler’s Impact on College Basketball

Zakai Zeigler’s accomplishments go far beyond just individual recognition. His success is a reflection of the growing importance of elite point guards in college basketball. In a game that increasingly values playmaking, leadership, and versatility, Zeigler has set the standard for what it means to be an elite point guard in today’s game. His ability to dominate on both ends of the floor while keeping his team competitive at the highest level is a testament to the evolution of the position.

Moreover, Zeigler’s achievements are indicative of a shift in power within college basketball. As the sport continues to become more dynamic and competitive, players like Zeigler are showcasing the importance of versatility and leadership in achieving success. For Tennessee, Zeigler has become not only the face of the program but also a model for future generations of point guards.

Looking Ahead: Zeigler’s Future and Legacy

With the 2025 Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award now in hand, Zakai Zeigler has cemented his place in college basketball history. However, his journey is far from over. With Tennessee eyeing a deep run in the NCAA tournament, Zeigler’s leadership and performance in the postseason will be key to the Volunteers

’ aspirations of capturing a national title.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Zeigler as he looks to finish what he started and leave a lasting legacy at the University of Tennessee. Whether or not Tennessee wins a national championship this year, Zakai Zeigler’s place among the elite college basketball players in history is already secured.