Zakai Zeigler got used to the rhythms and routines of life as a Tennessee basketball player last season.
But the second-year Vols goaltender is going through a period of adjustment before his second season: he has never had his family so close to him.
“It feels good to say, okay, I’m going to stop in 10 minutes and eat something,” Zeigler said. It’s really good to have them here.
Zeigler’s family bought a house and moved to Knoxville in July, months after a fire destroyed their New York apartment. Her mother, Charmane, sister and two nephews moved into the house, which was purchased after a GoFundMe raised over $350,000 to support the family.
“I’m at a loss for words on this,” Zeigler said. “It’s way better than I expected. I never imagined something like this would happen to me and my family. It’s just a really big blessing. I’m so grateful and blessed for that.
The GoFundMe quickly received its $50,000 goal and more than 5,600 donations to support the Zeiglers, including Zeigler’s nephew, 4-year-old Nori. Nori has special needs and the family lost items essential to Nori’s care in the February 26 fire in Queens.
Zeigler, the Vols and Lady Vols spent Saturday morning at Farragut High School at Hoops for Hope, which benefits the Down Syndrome Awareness Group of East Tennessee.
“I have a thing for people with disabilities,” Zeigler said. “The simple fact of seeing this event and seeing the children smiling while everyone is happy makes me feel good. I know what it’s like with my nephew. I can see when he’s down, and I can see when he’s happy. It’s a nice feeling.”
Zeigler was a Tennessee star as a freshman after joining UT’s recruiting class in August. The 5-foot-9 guard has become a fan favorite for his 3-point shooting and quick style of play. He was named to the SEC All-Freshman team after averaging 8.8 points and shooting 35.2 percent from 3-point range.
UT fans – and college basketball fans – came out to support Zeigler after the fire. Charmane Zeigler was already considering moving to Knoxville to be near her son. The fire and subsequent GoFundMe, which was used exclusively for relief and recovery, changed the timeline.
It still felt like a “long process” for Zeigler. But now that’s over, he’s enjoying life as Vol and with his family nearby.
“It’s the first time I’ve been this close to my family,” Zeigler said. “Even in high school, I was traveling on the train and doing this and that with this or that tournament. I have never been there so often. I always missed the parties and that event or event. Just being close like this is still new to me.
“It’s just awesome. It’s overwhelming at times, but it’s awesome.
Mike Wilson covers University of Tennessee athletics. Email him at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @ByMikeWilson. If you enjoy Mike’s coverage, consider a digital subscription that will give you access to it all.
