Zakai Zeigler: My Love for Tennessee Vols Runs Deeper Than Money
Basketball is more than just a game to me. It’s a way of life, a passion, and a platform that has given me the opportunity to inspire others. But even beyond basketball, one thing that truly defines my journey is relationships—genuine, heartfelt connections that transcend wins and losses. That’s why when people ask me about my commitment to Tennessee and whether money factors into my decision to stay, my answer is simple: I’m not driven by money. I stay because I love Tennessee with all my heart and soul.
The First Connection: Love at First Sight
From the moment I first stepped foot in Knoxville, I felt something special. It wasn’t just about basketball; it was about the culture, the atmosphere, and most importantly, the people. The love and support that Tennessee fans show their players are unmatched. Walking into Thompson-Boling Arena for the first time, hearing the crowd roar, feeling the energy of the fan base—I knew I was home.
For some players, choosing a school is a business decision. For me, it was personal. I wanted to be somewhere that felt like family, where I wasn’t just another player in a jersey but a part of something bigger than myself. Tennessee gave me that feeling. The coaches, my teammates, the fans, and even the people in the community welcomed me with open arms. That’s not something you find just anywhere.
The Brotherhood: More Than Teammates
One of the biggest reasons I love Tennessee so deeply is the brotherhood within this team. Playing for the Volunteers isn’t just about individual success—it’s about lifting each other up, pushing one another to be better, and embracing the journey together.
Some teams have players who are focused solely on their personal goals, their stats, and their future in the NBA. While we all have dreams of making it to the next level, what makes Tennessee different is that we play for each other. We celebrate each other’s successes and pick each other up during the tough times. That’s rare in today’s college basketball world.
When I suffered my injury, my teammates and coaches were right there beside me, making sure I stayed strong mentally and physically. That type of support goes beyond basketball—it’s real, and it’s what makes Tennessee feel like home.
The Fans: A Passion Like No Other
If you’ve ever been to a Tennessee basketball game, you know exactly what I’m talking about. The passion, the intensity, the unwavering loyalty—it’s something that every player dreams of experiencing.
Vol Nation isn’t just a fan base; it’s a family. They don’t just cheer for you when things are going well—they stick with you through the ups and downs. That kind of support means everything to me. When I step onto the court, I’m not just playing for myself or my teammates; I’m playing for every Tennessee fan who lives and breathes this team.
It’s easy for people to assume that players today are driven by NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals and financial opportunities. Don’t get me wrong—I understand the importance of those things, and I respect any player who makes decisions based on their financial future. But for me, it’s always been deeper than that. The love I have for this program, this school, and this community goes beyond any dollar amount.
The Culture: Built on Grit and Heart
Another reason Tennessee is so special to me is the culture that Coach Barnes and the staff have built. This program isn’t about taking shortcuts or chasing quick success. It’s about hard work, discipline, and doing things the right way.
Coach Barnes is more than just a coach—he’s a mentor, a leader, and someone who genuinely cares about his players beyond basketball. He challenges us to be better, not just as athletes but as men. He holds us accountable, pushes us to our limits, and teaches us values that will last a lifetime. That’s the kind of environment I want to be in.
Playing at Tennessee means embracing that blue-collar mentality. We aren’t given anything; we earn everything. We take pride in our defense, in our effort, and in playing the game the right way. That’s why I love being a Volunteer—it aligns with who I am as a person and a player.
The University: A Second Home
Beyond basketball, the University of Tennessee has given me so much. The relationships I’ve built with students, faculty, and fans have shaped me in ways I never imagined. Walking around campus, seeing the support from people who truly care about this program, makes every practice, every workout, and every game even more meaningful.
It’s not just about what happens on the court. It’s about the moments off the court—the conversations with fans, the time spent giving back to the community, the friendships that will last a lifetime. Tennessee has given me a platform to inspire others, to be a role model, and to make an impact beyond basketball.
The Legacy: Leaving My Mark
Every player wants to leave a legacy, but for me, it’s not just about stats or records. I want to be remembered for how I made people feel, for the energy I brought to every game, and for the passion I played with. I want kids in Tennessee to look up to me and see that hard work, loyalty, and heart matter more than anything.
I could have chased money, explored other opportunities, or thought about what’s next. But at the end of the day, none of that compares to the feeling of putting on that Tennessee jersey, running out in front of thousands of passionate fans, and knowing I’m part of something bigger than myself.
Conclusion: A Love That Can’t Be Measured
My love for Tennessee isn’t something that can be explained in numbers or contracts. It’s about relationships, loyalty, and a genuine connection that goes beyond basketball. Some things in life are priceless, and for me, the experience of being a Volunteer is one of them.
So when people ask me why I stay, why I play with so much passion, and why Tennessee means so much to me, the answer is simple: This is home. This is fami
ly. And no amount of money can ever replace that.
