Zakai Zeigler has been named the Tennessee Sportswriters Association Men’s Basketball Player of the Year after an outstanding season leading the Volunteers to success.

When it comes to heart, leadership, and pure talent, few players in college basketball embody those traits as completely as Tennessee’s Zakai Zeigler. Following a standout season where he dazzled on both ends of the court and guided the Volunteers to national prominence, Zeigler has been honored by the Tennessee Sportswriters Association as the Men’s Basketball Player of the Year.

It’s a prestigious and well-deserved recognition for one of the country’s most dynamic point guards — a player whose journey to stardom has been marked by resilience, hard work, and an undeniable will to win.

A Season to Remember

Zeigler’s 2024-25 campaign was nothing short of spectacular. After battling through an injury the previous season that cut short his sophomore year, he returned stronger, more focused, and more determined than ever to lead Tennessee to new heights.

He averaged 16.8 points, 6.2 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, serving as the engine for one of the nation’s toughest and most disciplined teams. His blend of scoring, passing, defensive intensity, and clutch performances made him the heart and soul of the Volunteers.

From buzzer-beaters to lockdown defensive performances, Zeigler delivered unforgettable moments throughout the season, endearing himself to fans and earning the respect of coaches and analysts across the country.

“Zakai is the definition of a leader,” said Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes. “He’s tough, he’s smart, and he competes at an elite level every single night.”

The Comeback Story

What makes Zeigler’s achievement even more remarkable is the adversity he overcame. In February 2024, he suffered a torn ACL that sidelined him for the remainder of the season and cast doubt over his future.

Rather than letting the setback define him, Zeigler attacked his rehabilitation with the same intensity he brings to the court. He spent months in the training room, working tirelessly to regain his explosiveness, agility, and confidence.

By the time the 2024-25 season tipped off, Zeigler was not only back — he was better than ever.

His comeback was a testament to his character and work ethic. It also made his success this year even sweeter, as he proved to himself, his teammates, and the world that nothing could keep him down for long.

“There were days it was tough, no doubt,” Zeigler admitted. “But I always believed I’d come back stronger. I owe it to my coaches, my family, and my teammates who never stopped believing in me.”

The Leader Tennessee Needed

Tennessee entered the 2024-25 season with high expectations but plenty of questions. With several roster changes and a brutal SEC schedule ahead, the Volunteers needed a steadying force, someone who could lead by example both on and off the court.

Zeigler answered the call.

Whether it was pushing the tempo on offense, locking down the opponent’s best guard, or rallying the team in tense moments, he consistently showed why he was the heart of the Volunteers. His leadership style wasn’t flashy — it was gritty, selfless, and relentless.

Teammates looked to him for guidance, and when the game was on the line, they trusted him to make the right play.

“Zakai’s leadership was invaluable,” senior forward Jonas Aidoo said. “He made all of us better. He held us accountable, and he always had our backs.”

Signature Moments

Throughout the season, Zeigler authored several signature performances that will be remembered by Tennessee fans for years to come.

• The Florida Game: In a key January matchup, Zeigler scored 24 points and dished out 10 assists, leading Tennessee to a critical road win over a ranked Florida team.
• The Alabama Thriller: In one of the season’s most dramatic games, Zeigler hit a game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer to stun the Crimson Tide and electrify Thompson-Boling Arena.
• SEC Tournament Run: During Tennessee’s run to the SEC Tournament final, Zeigler was sensational, averaging 18 points and 7 assists per game, cementing his status as one of the conference’s best.

These moments weren’t just about statistics — they were about impact. Zeigler consistently rose to the occasion when his team needed him most.

Defensive Dominance

While Zeigler’s offensive numbers were impressive, his defense often set him apart from other top players.

Despite standing just 5-foot-9, he played with a tenacity and toughness that frustrated opponents. His quick hands, lateral quickness, and basketball IQ made him one of the top perimeter defenders in the nation.

He regularly took on the challenge of guarding the opposing team’s best player, and his 2.1 steals per game reflected his ability to create turnovers and spark transition opportunities.

“Size never mattered to me,” Zeigler said. “It’s about heart, effort, and preparation. Defense is pride — and I take a lot of pride in it.”

Impact Beyond the Court

Zeigler’s impact wasn’t limited to what he did between the lines. He became a beloved figure in Knoxville for his humility, community involvement, and authentic connection with fans.

He often visited local schools, participated in charity events, and mentored young athletes, embodying the Volunteer spirit in every way. His journey — from overlooked recruit to one of the nation’s top players — resonated with many who admired his resilience and work ethic.

His story serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved through belief, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence.

What’s Next for Zeigler?

With his junior season complete and accolades rolling in, the next chapter of Zeigler’s basketball journey remains open.

He could choose to return to Tennessee for his senior season, aiming to lead the Volunteers on another deep NCAA Tournament run and further cement his legacy. Alternatively, he could declare for the NBA Draft, where his skill set, toughness, and leadership would be highly valued by professional teams.

Regardless of what he decides, Zeigler’s future is undeniably bright.

“I’m just focused on enjoying this moment right now,” Zeigler said after receiving the Player of the Year award. “I’ll sit down with my family and coaches and make the best decision for my future when the time comes.”

Legacy at Tennessee

No matter what lies ahead, Zakai Zeigler’s legacy at Tennessee is secure.

He’ll be remembered not just for his stats, or even his awards, but for the way he carried himself — the way he inspired his teammates, lifted the fans, and represented the program with pride.

He turned adversity into opportunity, setbacks into comebacks, and potential into performance. In doing so, he captured the hearts of Volunteer Nation and left an indelible mark on Tennessee basketball history.

“Zakai embodies everything we want our program to stand for,” Coach Barnes said. “Toughness, unselfishness, competitiveness, and heart. We’re lucky to have had him as part of our family.”

Final Thoughts

The Tennessee Sportswriters Association’s selection of Zakai Zeigler as Men’s Basketball Player of the Year is a fitting tribute to a season — and a player — that was truly special.

In an era where basketball is often dominated by size and flash, Zeigler proved that heart, leadership, and grit still matter just as much. He wasn’t just one of the best players in Tennessee — he was one of the best stories in all of college basketball.

As he continues to chase his dreams, whether in Knoxville for another year or at the next level, one thing is certain: Zakai Zeigler will keep inspiring everyone who has the privilege to watch him play.

And Volunteer fans will forever be proud to say that No. 5 once called Knoxville home.