NOW VERIFIED: Tennessee Guard Zakai Zeigler Clinches 2025 Bob Cousy Award and Midseason Wooden Award in Unprecedented Sweep
KNOXVILLE, TN — In a historic achievement that has left the college basketball world in awe, Tennessee Volunteers guard Zakai Zeigler has officially been awarded both the 2025 Bob Cousy Award (nation’s top point guard) and the Midseason Wooden Award, marking one of the rarest sweeps in NCAA history.
Zeigler’s rise to superstardom this season has been nothing short of meteoric. Averaging 21.4 points, 6.2 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game, he’s led a Volunteers squad that surged into the Top 10 national rankings with a perfect blend of scoring prowess, playmaking wizardry, and defensive tenacity. His peerless court vision—often compared to NBA All-Star Chris Paul—allowed Tennessee to control tempo and explode in clutch moments.
Why Zeigler Earned Both Honors
- Bob Cousy Award: Voted on by a panel of Hall of Famers, media, and coaches, the Cousy Award recognizes Zeigler’s uncanny ability to orchestrate the offense, dissect defenses, and elevate his teammates. His 4.8 assists per game rank among the nation’s best, and his turnover rate (1.9 per game) showcases a maturity uncommon at the collegiate level.
- Midseason Wooden Award: As one of the sport’s premier Player of the Year honors, the Midseason Wooden nod highlights Zeigler’s all-around excellence. His 48% shooting from the field, including 41% from three, and team-leading 2.3 steals per game demonstrate dominance at both ends.
Head coach Rick Barnes praised Zeigler’s impact: “He’s the heartbeat of our program. His work ethic, his leadership—Zakai defines what Tennessee basketball is all about.”
Zeigler’s sweep places him in elite company; only a handful of players have ever garnered both awards in a single season. NBA scouts are already circling, projecting Zeigler as a potential lottery pick in the 2026 Draft.
For Tennessee, this is more than individual glory. It’s a statement that Rocky Top basketball has arrived—and with Zakai Zeigler at the helm, the Volunteers are poised for a deep March run.
Congratulations, Zakai Zeigler—your legacy is just beginning.
