ESPN shares heartbreaking Zakai Zeigler story, explains why his mother is traveling with team

It’s been a rough week for Tennessee guard Zakai Zeigler, perhaps explaining why the 5-foot-9 freshman struggled from the floor in Tuesday night’s win over Georgia.

Zeigler on Tuesday shot just 1-for-7 from the field, missing all four of his three-point shot attempts, while also grabbing a rebound and notching three assists. In limited playing time, Zeigler also committed two fouls and turned the ball over twice. Tennessee was still able to overcome an early first-half deficit, tie it up by halftime and win it with a strong second half, but it couldn’t have been easy for Zeigler to contribute. On the SEC Network broadcast, the announcers shared a heartbreaking story and detailed what’s been a long week for the Long Island native.

“Zeigler — you mentioned the tough week he and his family had, hasn’t been his sharpest,” the SEC Network broadcasters said. “If you missed the story earlier, Zeigler’s family lost their residence in a house fire on Long Island. Tennessee’s athletic department put together plans to show fans how they can help the family get back on their feet, so stay tuned for that.”

At the time of publication, Tennessee has not yet shared details on any kind of fund or service to help out with the Zeigler family. However, the broadcasters said the athletic department will share further details on relevant social media platforms when those services become available.

The broadcasters added that Zeigler’s mother is currently traveling with the team, and she is receiving temporary housing and day-to-day assistance from the Tennessee basketball family. They said that Zeigler, asked pregame about his week, said that he had “all (he) needs” in Athens, with his mother being in attendance and in his company despite the tough times.

Listed at 5-foot-9, 167 pounds, Zeigler plays 21.4 minutes per game off the bench for Tennessee. He is averaging 8.9 points, 1.9 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game, while adding nearly two steals per game to that total.

Coming out of Immaculate Conception High School, Zeigler was not rated by the On3 Consensus, but he received a three-star rating from 247 Sports.