Tennessee basketball fans were sent into a frenzy of celebration this week as beloved men’s basketball star Zakai Zeigler announced his engagement to Lady Vols sharpshooter Edie Darby. The news sparked millions of reactions online and lit up Rocky Top with excitement and heartfelt congratulations.
The couple, who have been quietly dating while balancing their demanding athletic and academic schedules, shared the big news via a heartfelt Instagram post featuring a sunset backdrop, emotional captions, and a stunning engagement ring. “Forever my teammate,” Zeigler wrote, alongside a photo of him down on one knee. Darby followed with her own post: “Said yes to a lifetime of love, hoops, and home on Rocky Top.”
The announcement quickly went viral within the Volunteer fanbase. Teammates, alumni, coaches, and fans flooded the couple’s comments with support, emojis, and orange hearts. Social media pages dedicated to Tennessee sports shared tributes, while the university’s official accounts congratulated the pair with highlights and heartfelt messages.
Known for his electric energy on the court and unwavering leadership, Zeigler has become a face of Tennessee basketball. Darby, admired for her clutch shooting and fierce competitiveness, has also carved out a respected name within the Lady Vols program. Together, they’ve become one of college sports’ most adored power couples.
The engagement comes as both teams prepare for their upcoming seasons, adding even more excitement to an already highly anticipated year for Tennessee athletics. With love in the air and Vol pride at an all-time high, fans across Rocky Top are celebrating more than just basketball—they’re cheering on a love story rooted in grit, growth, and orange-blooded loyalty.
This engagement isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s a moment Vol Nation will never forget.
