Knoxville, TN –** In a performance that will be etched into the annals of Southeastern Conference (SEC) basketball history, Tennessee Volunteers point guard Zakai Zeigler delivered a breathtaking display of court vision and playmaking prowess, amassing an astounding 15 assists in a single game – a feat unseen in the conference for two decades….
In a performance that will be etched into the annals of Southeastern Conference (SEC) basketball history, Tennessee Volunteers point guard Zakai Zeigler delivered a breathtaking display of court vision and playmaking prowess, amassing an astounding 15 assists in a single game—a feat that underscores his exceptional talent and solidifies his place among the elite playmakers in the conference.
A Night to Remember
On December 23, 2024, the top-ranked Tennessee Volunteers faced Middle Tennessee in a non-conference matchup in Knoxville. Despite a challenging first half, where the Volunteers found themselves trailing by six points at halftime, Zeigler’s leadership and playmaking abilities became the catalyst for a remarkable turnaround. He orchestrated the offense with precision, distributing the ball effectively and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. Zeigler’s 15 assists not only marked a personal career high but also played a pivotal role in Tennessee’s 82-64 victory, improving their record to 12-0 and matching the second-best start in program history.
Historical Significance
Zeigler’s 15-assist performance is one of the most notable in the history of Tennessee basketball. The program’s single-game assist record is 19, set by Bill Hann during the 1967-68 season against Alabama. Other remarkable performances include 16 assists by Rodney Woods (1974-75 vs. Georgia), Johnny Darden (1977-78 vs. Northwestern), and Bert Bertelkamp (1979-80 vs. Maryland). Fred Jenkins also recorded 15 assists during the 1986-87 season against Georgia. Zeigler’s achievement places him among these distinguished playmakers in Tennessee’s storied basketball history.
Season and Career Milestones
Zeigler’s exceptional court vision and ability to facilitate the offense have been instrumental in the Volunteers’ success. During the 2023-24 season, he amassed 218 assists, ranking third in Tennessee’s single-season records. In the 2024-25 season, he continued his stellar play, recording 201 assists, which stands as the fifth-highest single-season total for the program. Over his collegiate career, Zeigler has accumulated 673 assists, placing him second on Tennessee’s all-time assists list, trailing only Johnny Darden’s 715 assists from 1975 to 1979.
Impact on Team Dynamics
Zeigler’s playmaking extends beyond individual statistics; his ability to read defenses and deliver precise passes elevates the performance of his teammates. In the game against Middle Tennessee, his 15 assists facilitated a balanced offensive attack, with multiple players scoring in double figures. Chaz Lanier benefited significantly, leading all scorers with 23 points, including five 3-pointers. Zeigler’s dual-threat capability was on full display as he also contributed 17 points, showcasing his scoring ability alongside his playmaking skills.
Leadership and Future Prospects
As a point guard, Zeigler embodies the quintessential floor general, directing the tempo of the game and making strategic decisions that enhance team cohesion. His leadership on the court has been a driving force behind Tennessee’s impressive performances, and his continued development is poised to propel the Volunteers deeper into postseason contention. Zeigler’s remarkable assist numbers not only reflect his individual talent but also signify a commitment
