This is amazing.
The college hoops community is stepping up and helping Tennessee Volunteers guard Zakai Zeigler‘s family in a big way … by raising more than $200,000 after his family home was destroyed in a fire.
The unfortunate incident happened last month — Zeigler’s family apartment home, in Queens NY, was left dismantled after a fire started on the second floor of the 3-story building.
Thankfully, his family escaped safely … but Zeigler’s mother, Charmane, and his special-needs 4-year-old nephew, Nori, lost all of their belongings — including his nephew’s wheelchair, splints and other equipment.
The Vols sprang into action to help out — starting a GoFundMe with a goal of $50k for “relief and recovery” for the freshman guard’s family and Nori’s care.
“Our administration did a terrific job. Once they got the news they jumped on it and got after it,” Vols head coach Rick Barnes said of the gesture.
“Been doing what they have to do to get things in order so that we can help.”
But, what’s even better?? Within just a few hours after the fund went up, thousands of people donated — raising over $200k!!
“The outpouring of support has been unbelievable!” Zeigler said Wednesday on Twitter, “We’ll get through this. All love, #VolNation!!”
Zeigler — a Long Island native — committed to UT last August and is averaging 8.7 points and 2.4 assists per game this season.