Zakai Zeigler has been the backbone of the Tennessee basketball program for the past four years, and heading into next season, it’s going to feel strange seeing someone else run the offense. Zeigler and Rick Barnes have shared a special bond, and Zeigler is easily one of Barnes’ closest players in terms of their relationship.
During the NCAA Tournament, the two soaked in every moment together for what could be their final run. Both Zeigler and Barnes knew each game might be their last together, but they focused on being present and appreciating the journey. Though Zeigler wasn’t highly recruited, Barnes saw something special in him from the start.
“The only thing I ever asked Coach Barnes for was a shot, and that’s all he ever promised me. He’s never lied to me. Never,” Zeigler said.
That opportunity turned Zeigler into one of the top point guards in the NCAA—and one of the best in Tennessee history.
Last season, Zeigler issued an emotional apology to Barnes after their run ended, but that may not be the last time the two share the court. Zeigler is currently involved in a lawsuit against the NCAA.
“(Zeigler) seeks to compete in the fifth year of his five-year eligibility window while pursuing a graduate degree," the lawsuit states. "But he finds himself arbitrarily barred from doing so by an NCAA rule that limits athletes to participating in only four seasons of intercollegiate competition within the five-year window (the 'Four-Seasons Rule'). As a result, he cannot compete or earn NIL compensation during his fifth year—the most lucrative year of the eligibility window for the vast majority of athletes."
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With Tennessee once again recruiting well through the transfer portal, there was concern that Zeigler might look elsewhere—but that was put to rest on Friday.
“Zakai Zeigler intends to play the 2025–26 season at Tennessee if granted an extra year of eligibility, his lawyers told federal judge Katherine Crytzer Friday,” Rocky Top Insider’s Ryan Schumpert wrote.
Zeigler has made it clear: Tennessee is home. In an era where loyalty is increasingly rare, it still means everything to him.