
In a bold move that could reshape college basketball eligibility rules, Tennessee Volunteers star point guard Zakai Zeigler has filed a federal lawsuit against the NCAA, seeking a fifth year of eligibility for the 2025-26 season. Announced on May 20, 2025, the lawsuit challenges the NCAA’s rule limiting athletes to four seasons of competition within a five-year eligibility window, alleging it violates federal and state antitrust laws. Zeigler’s legal action, supported by The Garza Law Firm and Litson PLLC, seeks a preliminary injunction to allow him to compete while pursuing graduate studies at Tennessee, potentially setting a precedent for future athletes.
Zeigler, a 5’9”, 171-pound senior from Long Island, New York, has been a cornerstone of Tennessee’s basketball program since arriving in 2021. A three-star recruit who exploded onto the scene after a standout Peach Jam performance, Zeigler became a fan favorite for his relentless energy and defensive tenacity. Over four seasons, he averaged 12.1 points, 8.0 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game, setting Tennessee’s career assist record (747, third in SEC history) and steals record (215, eighth in SEC history). His 2024-25 season was his best, with 13.9 points and 7.5 assists per game, earning him First-Team All-SEC honors and back-to-back SEC Defensive Player of the Year awards. Zeigler’s leadership propelled Tennessee to three straight Sweet 16 appearances, including an Elite Eight run in 2025, though they fell 69-50 to Houston.
The lawsuit stems from Zeigler’s belief that the NCAA’s four-year competition rule unfairly restricts athletes’ earning potential, particularly in the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. According to posts on X from @ByMikeWilson, Zeigler’s counsel cites a Spyre Sports Group analysis estimating he could earn up to $4 million in NIL compensation for a fifth season. The lawsuit argues that the rule constitutes an “unlawful restraint of trade,” limiting athletes’ ability to capitalize on their market value. Zeigler, who never redshirted, contends that his injury history—including a season-ending ACL tear in 2023—should not preclude additional eligibility, especially as he pursues graduate studies.
Zeigler’s case has sparked widespread discussion. Supporters, including Tennessee fans and coach Rick Barnes, view it as a fight for fairness. Barnes, who once considered redshirting Zeigler as a freshman, has praised his resilience, noting, “He’s been a fighter his whole life.” Critics, however, argue that extending eligibility could disrupt roster stability and competitive balance. The NCAA’s consideration of a five-year eligibility rule, reported by Jon Rothstein in early 2025, adds context, but Zeigler’s lawsuit pushes for immediate action.
If successful, Zeigler’s injunction could see him return to Tennessee, where his playmaking (7.4 assists per game in 2024-25, fourth in UT history) and defensive prowess would bolster a roster facing six open scholarship spots. The outcome could redefine NCAA eligibility rules, impacting countless athletes. As the legal battle unfolds, Zeigler’s legacy as a transformative figure in college basketball grows, both on and off the court.