KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Zakai Zeigler Drops Appeal but Continues Legal Battle Against NCAA

In a significant development for Tennessee basketball, Zakai Zeigler has officially withdrawn his bid for a federal judge to allow him to play a fifth season of Division I basketball. However, as confirmed by his attorneys on Tuesday, his lawsuit against the NCAA will still move forward. This decision comes after a judge recently denied Zeigler’s request for a preliminary injunction to return to the Volunteers.

Last month, Zakai’s request for the preliminary injunction was turned down, prompting his team to appeal the ruling. On Tuesday, however, the legal team voluntarily chose to withdraw that appeal. In a statement issued by the law firm Litson PLLC, they expressed hope that Zakai would have the opportunity to wear the Tennessee jersey again: “While we had hoped to see Zakai back in orange and white, he’s embracing the next chapter of his basketball career with optimism and resolve,” the statement read. “We remain committed to pressing his case forward in the trial court, where the core legal issues remain very much alive.”

The 5-foot-9 guard was not selected in last week’s NBA draft, but exciting news followed as the Detroit Pistons have signed him to play on their Summer League squad, offering him a crucial chance to prove himself.

Zeigler is among several athletes challenging the NCAA regarding its eligibility rules, particularly the guideline that limits players to four seasons in a five-year window. He argues that this rule is monopolistic and restricts athletes’ ability to earn compensation based on their name, image, and likeness. In his lawsuit, Zeigler stated he could potentially earn between $2 million and $4 million if he played another season at Tennessee.

This legal dispute highlights ongoing concerns about athletes’ rights and the ability to profit from their talents while competing in college sports.