The Elite Pairing: Lanier and Zeigler Join an Exclusive Club of Tennessee Teammates to Earn All-America Honors
In the storied history of Tennessee Volunteers basketball, the program has seen its fair share of talented players rise to national prominence. From the early days of basketball to the modern era, the Volunteers have produced a remarkable list of players who have earned accolades for their performances on the court. Yet, few honors hold more weight and significance than the coveted All-America designation, recognizing the top players in the country each season.
In the 2024-25 season, two players from Tennessee’s roster, Zakai Zeigler and Jonas Lanier, have etched their names into history by becoming the latest duo to earn All-America honors in the same season. Their inclusion in this prestigious group makes them just the second pair of Tennessee teammates to achieve this remarkable feat, joining an exclusive club that includes some of the greatest players to ever wear the Volunteers’ colors.
Let’s dive into the significance of this achievement, the players themselves, and what it means for Tennessee basketball.
The Elite All-America Teammates of the Past
Before Zeigler and Lanier, the only other pair of Tennessee teammates to collect All-America honors in the same season were the legendary duo of Reggie King and Ernie Grunfeld in the mid-1970s. King and Grunfeld, who played for the Volunteers during the 1975-76 and 1976-77 seasons, are widely regarded as two of the most influential figures in Tennessee basketball history. Both players were not only All-America selections but also foundational pieces in Tennessee’s rise to national prominence during that era.
Reggie King was a dominant force for the Volunteers, known for his scoring ability, athleticism, and versatility. Standing at 6’9″, King could impact the game in multiple ways, whether by scoring in the post, pulling down rebounds, or playing defense. He was the type of player who could dominate both ends of the court, and his leadership was vital for Tennessee’s success. King earned several All-America honors during his career, and his contributions to the program are still remembered to this day.
Ernie Grunfeld, on the other hand, was an exceptional all-around player who excelled both as a scorer and as a playmaker. Grunfeld’s shooting ability, particularly from the outside, was a major asset for the Volunteers. He was known for his basketball IQ, leadership, and clutch performances, and his ability to elevate his game in high-pressure situations made him one of the most feared players in college basketball during his time. Like King, Grunfeld’s legacy at Tennessee remains an integral part of the program’s history.
Together, King and Grunfeld formed one of the most dynamic and talented duos in college basketball history. Their All-America honors helped put Tennessee on the map nationally, and they set the standard for what it meant to be an elite player in the program. The pair’s achievements stand as a testament to the level of talent and potential that Tennessee basketball has been able to cultivate over the years.
Lanier and Zeigler: The Next Great Duo
Fast forward to the 2024-25 season, and Jonas Lanier and Zakai Zeigler have become the latest Tennessee teammates to earn All-America honors in the same year. Their recognition as All-America selections speaks not only to their individual excellence but also to the strength of Tennessee’s basketball program under head coach Rick Barnes.
Zakai Zeigler: A Stellar Floor General
Zakai Zeigler has been one of the standout players in college basketball over the past few years. Known for his lightning-fast speed, ball-handling skills, and exceptional defensive prowess, Zeigler has become the heart and soul of the Tennessee Volunteers. Standing at just 5’9″, Zeigler defies expectations and proves that size is not a limitation when it comes to competing at the highest level of college basketball.
Zeigler’s ability to control the game on both ends of the court has earned him a reputation as one of the top point guards in the nation. His tenacious defense, especially in creating turnovers and locking down opposing guards, has made him a nightmare for anyone trying to bring the ball up the court. Offensively, Zeigler is equally dangerous, capable of driving to the basket or dishing out assists to set up his teammates for easy baskets. His leadership on the court, particularly in high-pressure situations, is something that stands out, as he continually shows the poise and maturity of a player well beyond his years.
Zeigler’s All-America honor is a well-deserved recognition of his growth as a player and the impact he has had on Tennessee’s success. He is not only the motor that drives the team’s offense but also a defensive catalyst who has helped shape Tennessee’s identity as one of the nation’s top defensive teams.
Jonas Lanier: A Rising Star in the Post
Jonas Lanier, a versatile forward who combines skill, strength, and basketball IQ, has been another key player in Tennessee’s ascent to national prominence. Lanier, who stands at 6’8″, is a formidable presence both on offense and defense. His ability to score in a variety of ways—whether it’s in the post, from mid-range, or beyond the arc—makes him one of the most complete players in college basketball. He is equally comfortable driving to the basket or knocking down jump shots, making him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenders.
Lanier’s defense is another area where he has excelled, using his size and athleticism to guard multiple positions and provide rim protection when needed. He has consistently been one of the top shot-blockers in the SEC, and his rebounding ability allows him to contribute in a number of ways. His high basketball IQ and understanding of the game have made him a leader on the floor, and his offensive and defensive contributions have been critical to Tennessee’s success this season.
What sets Lanier apart from other players is his ability to step up in crucial moments. Whether it’s hitting a game-winning shot, making a critical stop on defense, or grabbing an important rebound, Lanier has consistently shown the ability to perform under pressure. His All-America selection is a testament to his versatility and his importance to Tennessee’s overall success this season.
Significance of the All-America Honors
The selection of Lanier and Zeigler to the All-America team marks a significant achievement for both players and the Tennessee basketball program. First and foremost, it’s a recognition of their individual talent and their ability to perform at the highest level. Being named to the All-America team is one of the most prestigious individual honors a player can receive, and for both Lanier and Zeigler to achieve this in the same season speaks to the caliber of players they are.
For Tennessee, the achievement of having two All-Americans in the same season is a major statement about the state of the program under head coach Rick Barnes. Barnes has built a team that emphasizes both offensive and defensive balance, and the selection of two players to the All-America team shows that Tennessee’s approach is paying off. It’s also a reflection of the culture Barnes has cultivated, where players are encouraged to develop their skills on both ends of the court and to buy into the team-first mentality.
From a historical perspective, Lanier and Zeigler’s achievement places them in rare company. Only the legendary duo of King and Grunfeld had previously earned All-America honors in the same season, underscoring the significance of this accomplishment. In an era where individual accolades are often the focus, having two teammates recognized as All-Americans in the same season speaks volumes about the strength of the team and the chemistry between the players.
Looking Ahead
As Lanier and Zeigler continue their respective careers, both are positioned to have lasting impacts not only on Tennessee basketball but also on the college basketball landscape. Their All-America honors are a reflection of their hard work, talent, and commitment to improving their craft. Both players have the potential to go on to successful professional careers, but for now, their focus remains on leading Tennessee to further success in the NCAA tournament.
For Tennessee fans, the achievement of having two All-Americans in the same season is a source of pride and excitement for the future. Lanier and Zeigler have already helped elevate the program to new heights, and their presence on the All-America team is a reminder that Tennessee basketball is in excellent hands.