Zakai Zeigler: A Midseason Wooden Award Winner and 2025 Bob Cousy Award Recipient

Zakai Zeigler, a standout guard for the University of Tennessee Volunteers, has achieved a remarkable feat in collegiate basketball, one that underscores both his raw talent and his indomitable drive. Zeigler has not only emerged as a crucial part of the Volunteers’ offensive and defensive schemes but has also cemented his status among the elite players in college basketball by winning two prestigious awards: the 2025 Midseason Wooden Award and the highly coveted 2025 Bob Cousy Award.

Early Life and Basketball Beginnings

Born and raised in New York, Zeigler was no stranger to the competitive nature of basketball. Growing up in the heart of Queens, he was exposed to the game at a young age, developing his skills in local parks, high school gyms, and AAU circuits. The intense competition and passion for the game in New York played a significant role in shaping Zeigler into the player he is today.

Zakai’s basketball journey took off at Long Island’s The Patrick School, a high school known for producing Division I athletes and elite-level talent. His performance during his high school years caught the attention of top scouts, but it was his exceptional ball-handling skills, court vision, and ability to create opportunities for his teammates that really set him apart from other prospects. Despite facing challenges in height, standing at 5’9″, Zeigler’s tenacity, agility, and basketball IQ made him a star.

After an impressive high school career, Zeigler decided to take his talents to the University of Tennessee, joining a program with a rich basketball history and a reputation for developing top-tier players. His choice was driven by the Volunteers’ commitment to excellence, their strong coaching staff led by Rick Barnes, and the opportunity to contribute immediately to a team that was gearing up to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament.

Impact at the University of Tennessee

Zakai Zeigler’s impact at Tennessee was felt from the moment he stepped on campus. A freshman in the 2022-2023 season, he quickly became a fan favorite for his fearless approach to the game and his ability to perform under pressure. Despite being a first-year player, Zeigler was entrusted with significant playing time, which spoke to his readiness and potential.

What made Zeigler stand out early in his collegiate career was his ability to lead by example. Whether it was making key assists in clutch moments, setting the tone with his defense, or knocking down critical shots, he proved that he was more than just a role player. His ball-handling skills were among the best in the country, and his quickness allowed him to break down defenses and create opportunities for his teammates.

Zeigler’s freshman year was nothing short of spectacular. He averaged double-digit points per game and quickly became a key contributor to Tennessee’s success on the court. His dynamic playstyle and leadership helped propel the Volunteers to a solid position in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) standings, and their run in the NCAA tournament was greatly aided by his stellar performances. Although Tennessee’s tournament run fell short of a national title, Zeigler’s potential was clear to anyone who had watched him play.

The 2023-2024 season saw Zeigler take his game to the next level. Not only did he continue to improve his scoring and playmaking ability, but he also developed into one of the top defenders in the SEC. His quick hands and ability to read the game allowed him to disrupt opposing offenses, making him a key figure in Tennessee’s defense-first approach. Zeigler’s leadership grew as well, and he quickly became one of the most respected voices in the locker room, leading by example with his work ethic and competitive spirit.

The Midseason Wooden Award

The 2024-2025 season was a defining one for Zakai Zeigler. By midseason, he had firmly established himself as one of the top players in college basketball. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor, combined with his leadership and maturity, made him a front-runner for the prestigious Wooden Award, given annually to the best player in collegiate basketball.

The Wooden Award, named after legendary coach John Wooden, is one of the most coveted individual honors in college basketball. It takes into account a player’s performance, leadership, and impact on their team. For Zeigler, winning the Midseason Wooden Award was a significant milestone, as it placed him alongside some of the most distinguished names in college basketball history. The award recognizes the players who are not only excelling on the court but also demonstrating exemplary character and leadership qualities.

Zakai’s Midseason Wooden Award win was a testament to his all-around game. His scoring ability had reached new heights, with multiple 20-point games against tough SEC competition. His decision-making and court vision continued to impress, and his ability to facilitate the offense had made Tennessee one of the most dangerous teams in the country. On the defensive side of the ball, Zeigler’s relentless pressure and ability to disrupt passing lanes made him a nightmare for opposing guards. He became known for his tenacity, often guarding the opponent’s best player and making life difficult for them throughout the game.

In the eyes of many, Zeigler’s most impressive quality was his ability to elevate his game in critical moments. Whether it was a last-second shot, a crucial defensive stop, or a key assist, Zeigler seemed to rise to the occasion when his team needed him most. His performance in the SEC, where the competition was fierce, had made him a favorite not just for the Midseason Wooden Award, but for other individual honors as well.

The Bob Cousy Award

In addition to his Midseason Wooden Award, Zeigler also earned the 2025 Bob Cousy Award, which is presented annually to the top point guard in college basketball. The award is named after the legendary Hall of Famer Bob Cousy, who played for the Boston Celtics and is widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards of all time.

The Bob Cousy Award is particularly significant for a player like Zeigler because it recognizes the essence of what makes a point guard great: leadership, playmaking ability, and the ability to control the tempo of the game. Point guards are often the quarterbacks of their teams, and Zeigler demonstrated a rare blend of vision, basketball IQ, and execution that made him stand out among his peers.

One of the reasons Zeigler was able to win the 2025 Bob Cousy Award was his ability to balance scoring with playmaking. While he averaged impressive points per game, it was his assists and his ability to get others involved that truly set him apart. His dynamic style of play allowed him to read the defense and find open teammates, whether it was through quick passes or off-the-dribble penetration. Zeigler’s court vision was unmatched, and he consistently created scoring opportunities for his teammates, making him the catalyst for Tennessee’s offensive success.

Furthermore, Zeigler’s leadership on and off the court played a major role in his recognition as the best point guard in college basketball. His commitment to improving every day, his willingness to mentor younger players, and his determination to win helped elevate Tennessee as a team. The Bob Cousy Award is not just about individual accolades—it’s about the impact a player has on their team and their ability to lead from the point guard position. Zeigler embodied all of these qualities and more, making him a deserving winner of the prestigious honor.

The Road Ahead

As of the 2024-2025 season, Zakai Zeigler has already achieved more than most college basketball players could ever dream of. Winning the Midseason Wooden Award and the Bob Cousy Award solidified his place as one of the best players in the country, and he has shown no signs of slowing down. With the NCAA tournament on the horizon, all eyes will be on Zeigler as he looks to lead the Volunteers to a national championship. His skill set, leadership, and clutch performances will undoubtedly play a major role in Tennessee’s postseason success.

In addition to his on-court accomplishments, Zeigler’s future beyond college basketball looks bright. His play has drawn the attention of NBA scouts, and many believe that he has the potential to thrive at the next level. His combination of speed, basketball IQ, and tenacity makes him a perfect fit for the modern NBA, where fast-paced play and dynamic point guards are in high demand.

However, for Zeigler, the focus remains on Tennessee and the goals he has set for his team. Whether it’s securing an SEC title or making a deep run in the NCAA tournament, Zeigler’s drive and determination will undoubtedly propel him toward even greater heights in the future.

Zakai Zeigler’s journey from a young player in Queens to a college basketball superstar is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and love for the game. Winning the Midseason Wooden Award and the Bob Cousy Award has cemented his legacy as one of the top point guards in the history of college basketball. With his exceptional skills, leadership, and drive, Zeigler has proven himself to be a player who can not only impact the game but change it.

As he continues to make waves on the court for the University of Tennessee, it is clear that Zakai Zeigler’s story is far from over. Whether he’s leading the Volunteers to victory or making his mark in the professional ranks, his future is one to watch, and his achievements are sure to inspire future generations of basketball players.