“I Am Not Departing from Rocky Top”: Zakai Zeigler Unveils Reasons He Wants to Stay with Tennessee and Pushes for a Long-Term Deal Extension…
KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE – June 2025
In an era when the transfer portal is buzzing with activity, and top collegiate athletes are frequently swayed by name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, it’s rare to find a player like Zakai Zeigler—loyal, passionate, and deeply rooted in the identity of a program. This week, the electrifying Tennessee Volunteers point guard broke his silence and made an emotional yet emphatic declaration: “I’m not departing from Rocky Top.” His words resonated like a thunderclap through the halls of Thompson-Boling Arena and across the Volunteer State.
Zeigler, who has become a symbol of grit and heart for Tennessee Basketball, announced his intent not just to stay but to extend his commitment to the program. In a heartfelt press conference and exclusive sit-down interview, the 5’9″ guard explained the powerful reasons behind his decision and his desire to lock in a long-term deal extension with the Volunteers.
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The Heart Behind the Decision: Loyalty Runs Deep
At the core of Zeigler’s decision is an unwavering loyalty to Tennessee—a bond he describes as “family beyond the court.” When asked what drives his passion to stay, Zeigler didn’t hesitate: “Tennessee took a chance on me. They believed in me when others overlooked me because of my size. This program is more than just a stepping stone to the next level. It’s where I became a man, a leader, and a Volunteer for life.”
Since joining the team, Zeigler has embraced everything about the culture of Tennessee. From singing “Rocky Top” with fans after big wins to mentoring young recruits, Zeigler’s dedication extends beyond the basketball court. His roots in Knoxville are personal and powerful.
“I’ve seen kids in the community wearing my jersey,” he said. “They look up to me. That’s not something you walk away from. That’s something you fight to protect and build.”
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A Journey of Resilience: Overcoming Adversity
Zeigler’s time at Tennessee hasn’t been without hardship. In 2023, he faced one of the toughest setbacks of his career when he tore his ACL. For many players, such an injury could be career-defining. For Zeigler, it became a launching pad for growth.
“Coming back from that injury taught me how strong I really am,” Zeigler reflected. “The Tennessee staff, my teammates, the fans—they were there every single step of the way. That’s not something I’ll ever forget.”
His comeback was one for the ages. Returning to the court in 2024, Zeigler not only regained his form but elevated it. He became the emotional leader of the Volunteers, known for his lockdown defense, breakneck speed, and fearless playmaking.
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A Championship Vision: “We’re Not Done Yet”
Beyond loyalty and gratitude, Zeigler’s eyes are set firmly on the future. When he says he’s not leaving Rocky Top, he’s not talking sentiment—he’s talking strategy.
“We’re not done yet. This program has the potential to win it all,” he stated. “I want to be part of the first Tennessee team to raise a national championship banner. And I don’t want to just be part of it—I want to lead it.”
Zeigler’s competitive fire burns bright. Despite offers from other programs and the lure of professional opportunities, his heart remains focused on finishing what he started with the Vols.
In his words, “I owe it to my brothers on this team. We’ve bled, sweat, and cried together. Why would I walk away from something we’ve built with so much pain and purpose?”
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Long-Term Commitment: Pushing for a Deal Extension
Perhaps the most surprising part of Zeigler’s announcement was not just that he’s staying—it’s that he wants to commit to a longer-term vision with Tennessee. In what is likely a first-of-its-kind public push in the NIL era, Zeigler has expressed a strong desire to work with the administration and Tennessee Athletics to craft a multi-year NIL extension.
“I believe college basketball can evolve, and I want to be at the forefront of that change,” Zeigler explained. “Let’s show the world that loyalty still exists. Let’s build a new model where players can grow and thrive with the same program for years.”
According to sources within the Tennessee Athletic Department, talks are already underway to craft a comprehensive NIL plan that will reflect Zeigler’s value to the university—not just as a basketball player but as a campus and community ambassador. The potential deal may include long-term branding, community outreach projects, merchandise collaboration, and leadership roles in upcoming Tennessee recruiting efforts.
Athletic Director Danny White confirmed that conversations have been “positive and productive,” adding, “Zakai represents everything we want in a Volunteer. His passion, heart, and leadership are irreplaceable. We will do everything in our power to ensure he continues to thrive here.”
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Fan Reaction: A Community Rejoices
To say the fans are excited would be an understatement. Within hours of the announcement, social media exploded with hashtags like #ZStay and #RockyTopForever. Murals of Zeigler began popping up in Knoxville. Local businesses launched promotions in his honor. One café even renamed their signature espresso drink “The Zeigler Zing.”
One fan tweeted, “Zakai staying is the best offseason news we could ask for. He is Rocky Top.”
Another wrote, “He’s not just our point guard—he’s our heartbeat.”
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Looking Ahead: Building a Legacy
Zakai Zeigler’s decision to stay with Tennessee may go down as one of the defining moments in modern college basketball. At a time when loyalty seems outdated and the transfer portal is the new normal, Zeigler is writing a different story—one rooted in commitment, courage, and community.
As he prepares for another season leading the Vols, the message is clear: Zeigler is not just playing for banners or draft stock. He’s playing for something deeper. A legacy.
“I want to be remembered as more than just a good player,” he said with a smile. “I want to be remembered as someone who loved Tennessee with his whole heart. Someone who stayed, fought, and finished the mission.”
And with that, Zeigler leaned back in his chair, the orange of his Tennessee hoodie gleaming under the lights, and concluded: “I’m not departing from Rocky Top. I never was.”
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Byline:
Eli Carter, Knoxville Sentinel – June 2025
Tags: Zakai Zeigler, Tennessee Volunteers, Rocky Top, NIL Deal, College Basketball, SEC, Loyalty, NCAA
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