Tennessee Volunteers basketball fans, get ready — the No. 5 jersey may be headed back to the rafters!
In a powerful and heartfelt statement, Vols legend Chris Lofton, whose own No. 5 jersey was retired in 2023, is now calling on the university to retire Zakai Zeigler’s No. 5 — a move that has fans fired up and ready for action.
“What Zakai has done for this program can’t be measured in just stats. He’s a warrior, a leader, and a true Tennessee Volunteer. No. 5 is in good hands — and it deserves to stay up there forever, right next to mine,” Lofton said in a recent interview.
Zeigler, who just wrapped up an extraordinary season, holds the program and SEC record for most assists in a single season. He’s also a two-time SEC Defensive Player of the Year, a fan favorite, and the heart and soul of the Vols’ high-energy backcourt. Despite standing just 5’9″, Zeigler plays with the kind of grit and intensity that reminds fans of another undersized giant: Chris Lofton himself.
Lofton, known for his clutch three-point shooting and fearless leadership during the Bruce Pearl era, sees a reflection of his own fire in Zeigler’s game. The connection between the two No. 5s runs deep — and that’s what has fans buzzing about this push for jersey retirement.
“Zakai Zeigler is more than just stats — he’s a culture-changer,” said one Vols supporter on Twitter. “We haven’t had a point guard with this much fight and leadership since… ever.”
Zeigler has also been a symbol of perseverance. After suffering a devastating ACL injury in 2023, he made a triumphant return to lead the Vols to an SEC title run — showcasing resilience, leadership, and unmatched heart.
So what happens next? According to sources close to the program, discussions have already begun within the athletic department about honoring Zeigler’s legacy. While no official announcement has been made, the growing momentum from fans and Lofton himself could make it hard to ignore.
“When two No. 5s leave a legacy this strong, you honor it,” Lofton added. “Zakai earned his place — now it’s time to hang it up where it belongs.”
The Vols have only retired a handful of basketball jerseys in program history. If Zeigler’s is next, it will mark a historic moment — one that connects two generations of greatness and reminds us all what Tennessee basketball is about.
Tag a Vols fan who bleeds orange, drop your thoughts in the comments — should Zakai Zeigler’s No. 5 go to the rafters next.
