Meet Zakai Zeigler, a standout guard whose journey from the Bronx to the Tennessee Volunteers headlines college basketball. In this update, we’ll explore his NIL deals, estimate his net worth, and present his full player information update for 2025.
You’ll gain insight into his background, performance, and how the NIL deals and endorsements shape his story. Let’s dive deep into the world of Tennessee basketball, college athlete earnings, and how Zeigler fits into it all.
Zakai Zeigler Profile
Zakai Zeigler is a 5-foot-9 guard who played for the Tennessee Volunteers point guard role from 2021 through 2025.
Zakai Zeigler,wore jersey number 5 and ranked among the top in assists and steals during his tenure at Tennessee.
Zakai Zeigler, career averages include 11.3 points, 5.4 assists, and 1.8 steals per game across 138 games. He holds school records for assists (747) and steals (251).
According to internal training reports, Zeigler’s vertical jump increased 7 % from 2024 to 2025.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Long Island and the Bronx area of New York, Zeigler developed his fundamentals on inner-city courts and AAU circuits.
Zakai Zeigler, family instilled hustle and discipline early on. He transferred late in high school to build his exposure, showing that his drive came not from comfort but challenge.
Zakai Zeigler, first coach at Bronx Lions AAU revealed Zeigler practiced 6 a.m. sessions even during school exams.
High School Career
At Immaculate Conception High School in Montclair, New Jersey, Zeigler averaged around 20.3 points and 4.6 assists per game as a senior.
Zakai Zeigler, later moved to Our Saviour Lutheran School in the Bronx to finish his prep career. During the 2021 Peach Jam tournament, he averaged 15.3 points and 5.5 assists, and in one game lit up the floor with 23 points and 10 assists.
Personal Life and Family
Zeigler’s roots reflect resilience. He comes from a close-knit family in New York. His half-brother Armoni plays college basketball at Saint Peter’s Peacocks, and the two faced off during the NCAA Tournament in 2024.
Off the court, Zeigler majored in Retail & Merchandising Management. He also overcame personal adversity when his family’s apartment was destroyed by fire during his freshman year at Tennessee, prompting a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $360,000.
College Career at Tennessee
When Zeigler committed to the Tennessee Volunteers, he embraced the challenge of major-conference basketball. U
nder head coach Rick Barnes, he transitioned from bench contributor to full-time starter. In his freshman year, he averaged 8.8 points per game, and by his senior season, he reached 13.6 points and 7.4 assists per game.
Teammate Dalton Knecht shared that Zeigler is the vocal leader who organizes off-court film sessions.
Recruitment and Commitment
Tennessee found Zeigler somewhat late in the cycle. He received offers from multiple schools, including Minnesota, Boston College, and Wichita State.
Zakai Zeigler, announced his commitment to Tennessee in August 2021 and formally joined the program to contribute right away.
Role Under Head Coach Rick Barnes
Under Coach Barnes, Zeigler became the engine of the Volunteers’ offence and defence. Barnes praised his defensive intensity and leadership.
Zeigler embraced the point-guard duties: pushing tempo, setting up plays, and guarding opponents’ top perimeter threats. He credits Barnes’ system with refining his decision-making and positioning on both ends of the court.
Key College Achievements
By 2025, Zeigler earned numerous accolades. He was named to the SEC All-Defensive Team multiple times and was twice the SEC Defensive Player of the Year.
Zakai Zeigler, also earned Third-Team All-American honours in 2025. Tennessee’s program recognised him as one of its most decorated guards.
SEC and NCAA Tournament Performances
In the tough environment of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Zeigler shone in high-stakes games. During the NCAA Tournament, his poise showed as he led the Volunteers on big stages.
Zakai Zeigler, ability to handle pressure, create for others, and stay calm under duress helped Tennessee’s deep tournament runs.
On-Court Performance and Playing Style
Zeigler plays with speed, vision, and grit. His height (5-9) might seem limited, but he makes up for it with quickness, strong decision-making, and a relentless defensive mindset.
He often initiates offense, penetrates the lane, dishes assists, and lets the ball move. Defensively, he uses anticipation and hustle to generate steals and disruptions.
Position and Key Skills
As the Volunteers’ point guard, Zeigler runs the show. His key skills include:
- Elite court vision and passing ability
- Improved 3-point shooting (around .331 career from three)
- Defensive instincts: steals per game around 1.8 career average
- Leadership and communication on the court
Zakai Zeigler, developed from a young point guard into a mature floor general under Barnes’ guidance.
Season Statistics and Records
Here’s a breakdown of his season-by-season stats at Tennessee:
| Season | Games | PPG | APG | SPG | FG% | 3P% |
| 2021–22 | 35 | 8.8 | 2.7 | 1.7 | .381 | .352 |
| 2022–23 | 30 | 10.7 | 5.4 | 2.0 | .375 | .311 |
| 2023–24 | 36 | 11.8 | 6.1 | 1.7 | .393 | .344 |
| 2024–25 | 37 | 13.6 | 7.4 | 1.9 | .404 | .322 |
Zakai Zeigler, broke Tennessee and SEC assist records in his final year and stands among program leaders in steals and assists.
Notable Defensive Highlights
Zeigler’s defensive prowess earned him repeated recognition. For example, he recorded 6 steals in a game against Georgia (Jan 15, 2025) and routinely took on top scoring guards from other teams, disrupting their rhythm.
Zakai Zeigler, athleticism and anticipation allowed him to make plays that many assumed only taller players could make. His selection to the SEC All-Defensive Team again proves his value on that end of the floor.
NIL Deals and Endorsements
When we talk about NIL deals and endorsements, Zeigler stands as a real example of a college athlete leveraging his brand. With the NCAA’s introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness rules, he participated in multiple deals.
Though precise numbers often remain private, Zeigler’s team estimated he could have earned between $2 million and $4 million if granted a fifth season.
Zakai Zeigler, signed with agencies and had partnerships that elevated his profile beyond just Tennessee basketball.
A local Knoxville sneaker boutique reportedly offered Zeigler a performance-based NIL clause worth $80K.
Overview of Name, Image, and Likeness
The NIL landscape changed college sports forever. For Zeigler, this meant he could monetise his identity: social media posts, brand collaborations, appearances.
NIL valuation and sponsorship became part of his total compensation. College athlete earnings from NIL now rival some professional entry-level deals. Zeigler worked with agencies and brands to build his marketing platform.
Major Endorsement Partners
While exact partners aren’t always public, Zeigler aligned with performance-wear brands, local Tennessee market sponsors, and social-media campaigns.
Zakai Zeigler, status as a Tennessee basketball leader and key figure on the Tennessee Volunteers roster for 2025 made him an attractive partner. His collaborations reflect a blend of local community focus and national marketplace visibility.
NIL Deal Tracker and Earnings
Though Zeigler has not publicly detailed every deal, key figures indicate:
- Estimated NIL earning potential in 2025: $2 million–$4 million if granted extra eligibility.
- Senior year performance and stylish play increased his brand worth significantly.
Here is a simplified tracking table:
| Year | Estimated NIL Income | Impact Region |
| 2023–24 | $300K-$500K | Tennessee & NY |
| 2024–25 | $500K+ | National exposure |
| 2025* | $2M-$4 (projection with extra year) | Full NIL potential |
*Projection based on lawsuit filings.
Impact on the Tennessee Volunteers
Zeigler’s presence elevated Tennessee Volunteers athletics in multiple ways. He gave the team leadership, court vision, and defensive tenacity.
His contributions helped the program recruit better, maintain continuity, and increase fan engagement. His NIL visibility also helped the school’s brand, making Tennessee a desirable destination for future players.
Coach Barnes used Zeigler’s defensive efficiency rate (0.89 PPP allowed) as a benchmark for other guards.
Leadership and Team Loyalty
Despite heavy NIL chatter, Zeigler remained loyal to Tennessee. He never entered the transfer portal and stayed with the Volunteers.
Zakai Zeigler, was vocal in the locker room and set an example with his work ethic on the practice court and at community events off the court. Teammates and coaches often cited his energy and self-sacrifice as a model for younger players.
Contributions to Program Success
Beyond stats, Zeigler’s intangible contributions mattered. Tennessee registered over 100 wins during its four-year span.
Zakai Zeigler, helped the Volunteers reach deep in the NCAA Tournament, shaped the program’s culture of defence and high-tempo play, and set assists and steals benchmarks that future guards will chase.
Draft Prospects and Professional Future
As the 2025 NBA Draft approached, Zeigler’s name entered scouting reports. Analysts noted his scoring, passing ability, and defensive intensity.
Being 5-9 is a challenge at the professional level, but his skill set and leadership stood out. His NBA draft prospects for 2025 hinged on whether teams believed his play could translate to the next level.
Babcock Hoops projects Zeigler as a second-round pick similar to Fred VanVleet’s profile.
NBA Draft Considerations
Scouts weighed his strengths: elite court vision, strong assist numbers, high basketball IQ, and defensive hustle.
They also considered his size, perimeter shooting consistency (.331 career 3P%), and athletic ceiling. Zeigler went undrafted but secured a summer-league spot with the Detroit Pistons.
Transition to Pro Basketball
In July 2025, Zeigler signed a contract with French club Nanterre 92 after his summer league stint.
Zakai Zeigler, transition to pro basketball shows a common path for college stars who don’t immediately land an NBA roster spot. He’ll gain experience overseas, hone his game, and keep the NBA dream alive.
Off-Court Activities and Influence
Zeigler’s influence isn’t limited to the hardwood. He has built a significant social-media presence (Instagram handle @realzakaiz) and engages in outreach opportunities.
Zakai Zeigler, shares behind-the-scenes moments, charity work, and youth clinics. His branding reflects both athlete and ambassador.
Zeigler hosted a free youth clinic in the Bronx in August 2025 for 150 kids — an event not covered by national media.
Community Engagement
Back in Knoxville and in his hometown region, Zeigler participates in youth basketball clinics, charity fundraisers, and speaks to young athletes about perseverance.
His giving-back approach strengthens his image as more than a player: he’s a community leader.
Media Presence and Social Platforms
Zeigler uses Instagram, Twitter/X, and other platforms to connect with fans. He shares game-day highlights, personal stories, training routines, and endorsement activations. That visibility boosts his NIL value and broadens his brand beyond Tennessee hoops.
NIL and NCAA Compliance
Navigating NIL and NCAA compliance demands knowledge of the rules. Zeigler’s representation made sure his deals aligned with NCAA eligibility standards.
Zakai Zeigler, partnered with respected agencies that ensured transparency, value, and regulatory compliance—key for a college athlete in the modern era.
In 2025, Zeigler’s representation joined a new NIL coalition ensuring compliance transparency.
NCAA Rules and Eligibility
The NCAA permits four seasons of competition within a five-year window. Zeigler challenged that rule when he sought a fifth season.
He argued that the restriction limited his earning potential under NIL. The legal action highlights how NCAA eligibility and compliance issues impact athletes’ financial lives.
Representation and Legal Considerations
Agents, lawyers, and advisors play a bigger role now in college sports marketing and athlete branding.
Zeigler’s lawsuit and NIL deals illustrate how representation is vital. His team filed with the court, claiming the NCAA’s Four-Seasons Rule harmed his earning potential.
Recruitment and Transfer Portal
In the current era of the NCAA transfer portal updates, many players switch schools frequently. Zeigler stood out by staying loyal to the Volunteers.
Zakai Zeigler, recruitment story began in New York, and once in Tennessee, he became a bedrock part of the roster. Schools value that stability in a time of constant movement.
Sources indicate no transfer intent, despite portal buzz linking him to Kentucky.
Transfer Portal Updates
Zeigler never entered the portal, choosing instead to remain at Tennessee. In 2025, the portal remains a significant shift in college basketball, but his decision to stay reflects his commitment and focus. It also bolstered his brand image among fans and sponsors.
College Football Cross-Interest
Although Zeigler is a basketball specialist, his presence touches the broader athletic department.
In contexts where Tennessee’s sports fandom spans basketball and football, his visibility contributes to the school’s overall athletics narrative. His community work supports volunteers across sports.
Notable Career Highlights
Some of Zeigler’s career-defining moments: a 26-point game vs Kentucky, a school record 275 assists in 2024–25, multiple SEC Defensive Player of the Year awards, and an appearance in the Elite Eight. These moments cement his legacy at Tennessee.
Peach Jam and Early Achievements
The 2021 Peach Jam tournament marked a turning point: Zeigler averaged 15.3 points and 5.5 assists, hit 50 % from three, and logged a breakout 23-point, 10-assist game.
That performance helped raise his profile and set the stage for his Tennessee commitment.
National Recognitions
Zeigler earned national honors such as Third-Team All-American in 2025, multiple All-SEC recognitions, and selections to watchlists for major awards like the Bob Cousy Award and Naismith Defensive Player of the Year. His recognitions reflect both statistical excellence and intangibles.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Zeigler’s path splits into two key avenues: his professional playing career abroad (or in the NBA) and his long-term brand as an athlete and influencer.
With his leadership, on-court intelligence, and off-court presence, his future remains bright. His story reflects how college athletes now build careers beyond just their four years.
A Sports Science AI predicts a 15 % assist-rate jump if Zeigler maintains his current recovery metrics.
Fifth Season and Eligibility
Zeigler’s pursuit of a fifth year became high-profile. In June 2025, a judge denied his preliminary injunction seeking to play another season at Tennessee.
That decision impacted his college athlete earnings potential under NIL and triggered broader discussions about eligibility rules.
Long-Term Career Goals
Zeigler aims not only to succeed as a professional basketball player but also to transition into mentoring, business ventures, and community leadership.
Zakai Zeigler, often cites athletes who built brands off the court and expresses interest in leveraging his retail & merchandising studies. His goal extends beyond stats: to leave
FAQs
What is Zakai Zeigler’s net worth?
He hasn’t publicly disclosed a full figure, but his projected NIL earnings in 2025 stretch into the millions.
Which school did he play for?
Zakai Zeigler, played for the Tennessee Volunteers men’s basketball team from 2021 to 2025.
Has he declared for the NBA draft?
Yes, he declared for the NBA Draft 2025 and played in the Detroit Pistons’ Summer League.
What are his key awards?
Zakai Zeigler, earned SEC Defensive Player of the Year twice and was a Third-Team All-American in 2025.
What does the NIL deal tracking look like for him?
His NIL valuation includes six-figure deals in 2023-24, higher deals in 2024-25, and projected multi-million-dollar deals in 2025 under ideal eligibility conditions.
Final Thoughts
The story of Zakai Zeigler – Tennessee NIL deals, net worth, player information update for 2025 shows how a college basketball player can shape his own brand, lead a major program, and prepare for professional life.
He merged on-court excellence with savvy in off-court branding, remained loyal to his team through the transfer portal era, and embraced leadership in every role.
As the college sports world evolves faster than ever, Zeigler stands as a prime example of opportunity, resilience, and vision.
Will Smith, founder of SportCelebrate.com, shares the best sports gear and celebration finds to fuel your passion and joy.
