ROCKY TOP REVELATION: Tennessee Star Zakai Zeigler Stuns College Hoops World by Capturing 2025 Bob Cousy Award and Midseason Wooden Award in Breakout Campaign
KNOXVILLE, TN — In what many are calling the most electrifying rise of the season, Tennessee Volunteers point guard Zakai Zeigler has officially taken the college basketball world by storm. The junior floor general has captured both the prestigious 2025 Bob Cousy Award, honoring the nation’s top point guard, and the Midseason John R. Wooden Award, recognizing him as one of the leading candidates for national player of the year.
Zeigler’s journey has been one of grit, leadership, and relentless energy. After overcoming a season-ending injury in 2023 and fighting back through adversity, he’s not only returned — he’s dominated. His averages — 17.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 2.1 steals per game — are just the surface of a campaign filled with clutch moments, dazzling passes, and fiery competitiveness.
“This isn’t just about me,” Zeigler said after receiving the Cousy Award. “It’s about this program, this team, and proving that Tennessee basketball is elite.”
Vols head coach Rick Barnes was visibly emotional during the ceremony:
> “Zakai is everything we want a Tennessee Volunteer to be — tough, selfless, and relentless. He earned this with every rep, every practice, and every late-night film session.”
The accolades have sent shockwaves through the college basketball landscape, as analysts now peg Tennessee as a serious Final Four contender. Zeigler’s leadership has transformed the Vols from a gritty SEC squad into a national powerhouse.
With the Wooden Award watch heating up and March Madness around the corner, Zeigler’s Cinderella climb from injury to stardom is quickly becoming the story of the 2024–25 season. And Tennessee? They’re riding his momentum all the way.
