Could Zeigler return?
Zakai Zeigler might not be done in Knoxville after all. The legendary Tennessee point guard just finished up his fourth season of eligibility, and it was announced today that he would officially be seeking a fifth.
Zakai Zeigler has filed a lawsuit against the NCAA regarding his eligibility. He’s looking to get a fifth year. #Vols pic.twitter.com/JyhRrCm0Yo
— Reece Van Haaften (@Reece_VH) May 20, 2025
“We have requested a preliminary injunction to allow Zakai to compete in the upcoming season while pursuing his graduate studies,” the press release states. “We look forward to a swift resolution to this matter so that Zakai can begin preparing for next season.
“The lawsuit alleges the NCAA’s rule permitting four seasons of eligibility within a five-year eligibly window is an unlawful restraint of trade under federal and state antirust laws.”
Tennessee currently has one scholarship spot available. Rick Barnes and company signed Maryland transfer Ja’Kobi Gillespie out of the transfer portal, who was expected to take Zeigler’s point guard role.
Zeigler was not invited to the NBA Combine or G-League Combine. His size will always keep him off of the NBA’s radar, but the decorated point guard is now shooting for one final ride with Tennessee. Zeigler averaged 13.7 points per game and 7.4 assists last season. He became Tennessee’s all-time leader in assists for a career and single-season assists, all while setting an SEC record for assists in a single season.
Let the battle in the courts begin…..