Zakai Zeigler to Toss Ceremonial First Pitch at Tennessee Baseball Game Against Auburn
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Lindsey Nelson Stadium will be the place to be on Friday night as former Tennessee Volunteers basketball standout Zakai Zeigler is set to take the mound for a special appearance. Zeigler, one of the most beloved players in recent Vols basketball history, has been chosen to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before Tennessee’s baseball team opens its series against the Auburn Tigers.
The announcement came from Tennessee Baseball earlier Friday, drawing buzz among fans who are eager to see the dynamic point guard in a different athletic setting. Known for his on-court leadership, relentless defense, and emotional presence, Zeigler now takes on a new role—celebrated guest and ceremonial starter at the diamond.
Originally scheduled for later in the evening, the first pitch and game were both moved up to 5:30 p.m. due to an unfavorable weather forecast. With storms expected in the Knoxville area later Friday, the change was made to ensure both safety and an uninterrupted event.
In a social media post, Tennessee Baseball encouraged fans to arrive early so they don’t miss this moment. “You don’t want to miss this,” the tweet read, followed by an invitation to catch Zeigler in action before the first pitch of the game. The post included the hashtags #GBO (Go Big Orange) and #BeatAuburn, rallying fans to support both the guest of honor and the team.
Zeigler’s selection for this honor is hardly surprising given his standout achievements and the widespread admiration he’s earned during his collegiate career. In April, he was named the Tennessee Sportswriters Association Men’s Basketball Player of the Year—an award that punctuates a college journey filled with both personal and team triumphs.
Zeigler’s final year in Knoxville was his most productive yet. Averaging 13.6 points per game, he also contributed 7.4 assists, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.9 steals, proving himself to be a consistent all-around threat. But perhaps most impressive was his record-breaking ability to create for others. Zeigler shattered the SEC’s single-season assists record, dishing out an astounding 275 assists, surpassing the previous record of 260 set in 1980. This feat not only showcased his skill but also underscored his leadership and unselfish play.
Defensively, Zeigler was once again a force to be reckoned with. For the fourth consecutive year, he earned a spot on the SEC All-Defensive Team. His quick hands, court awareness, and dogged determination made him one of the most feared perimeter defenders in the conference. Opposing guards rarely found easy paths to the basket when Zeigler was on the floor.
Beyond the numbers and accolades, what makes this ceremonial pitch especially significant is what Zeigler represents to the Volunteer faithful. His resilience, passion, and community engagement have endeared him to fans across the state. Having overcome personal tragedy during his time at Tennessee—including the loss of his family’s home to fire—Zeigler responded with grace and grit, and the Knoxville community rallied around him in turn.
He leaves behind a legacy that goes far beyond basketball statistics. He became a symbol of heart and perseverance for the Tennessee athletic family, and Friday’s moment at Lindsey Nelson Stadium is as much a tribute to that spirit as it is to his basketball accomplishments.
The matchup between Tennessee Baseball and Auburn adds another layer of excitement to the evening. The Vols have built one of the premier programs in the country in recent years, and every SEC series is packed with implications for postseason positioning. Auburn, known for its competitiveness, will be looking to spoil the party—but with a pumped-up crowd and the symbolic presence of Zeigler, the Vols are hoping to carry some extra momentum into the game.
Zeigler’s first pitch ceremony is expected to draw a larger-than-usual early crowd. Fans of Tennessee basketball will want to give one last cheer to the man who spent four years energizing Thompson-Boling Arena. The crossover between sports programs underscores the tight-knit nature of Tennessee athletics, where athletes from different teams support one another and share a unified goal—representing the University of Tennessee with pride.
It’s also a celebration of Zeigler’s transition from student-athlete to Tennessee legend. As he steps onto the field to throw that pitch, it will symbolize both a farewell and a thank-you—from the university to one of its most cherished stars. While his basketball journey at UT has concluded, Zeigler’s connection to Rocky Top is far from over. Whether he moves on to professional play or pursues other ventures, he’ll always have a home in Knoxville.
And for the fans in attendance Friday evening, this is a moment worth savoring—a rare opportunity to witness a dual-sport celebration of excellence, effort, and enduring Volunteer spirit.
So whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan, a loyal follower of Vol Hoops, or simply someone who appreciates seeing student-athletes celebrated for their impact, make your way to Lindsey Nelson Stadium early. Zakai Zeigler is set to deliver one more unforgettable moment in Big Orange Country.
