Lady Vols player Tess Darby and Zakai Zeigler announce their engagement, with a wedding date set as
The world of college sports witnessed a magical moment recently as two of its brightest stars, Tess Darby and Zakai Zeigler, announced their engagement. The two athletes, known for their incredible talents on the basketball court, have also garnered attention for their inspirational relationship that has blossomed amid the challenges of their sports careers and personal lives. As they prepare for their wedding, scheduled for August 2025, fans and supporters alike are filled with excitement and joy for this beloved couple.
The Beginning: A Bond Forged Through Basketball
Tess Darby, a standout player for the Lady Vols, and Zakai Zeigler, the electric point guard for the Tennessee Volunteers men’s basketball team, have long been part of the same sports ecosystem. Their paths crossed numerous times during their time at the University of Tennessee, where both have become household names in the world of college basketball.
It was during the 2022-2023 basketball season that their relationship began to blossom. Although both were at the top of their game in their respective programs, they initially came together through their shared passion for basketball. Their conversations would often begin with discussions about game strategies, training regimens, and the pressures of being elite athletes. Over time, these conversations evolved into deeper discussions about their dreams, goals, and personal lives.
Tess, who had been a key contributor to the Lady Vols’ success, and Zakai, known for his quickness, vision, and heart on the court, quickly became friends, then close friends, before their connection turned into something more. Their chemistry was undeniable, both on and off the court, and their mutual support for each other’s careers made it clear that they were building a solid foundation for a lifelong partnership.
The Proposal: A Moment of Pure Magic
After years of supporting one another through the highs and lows of their athletic careers, Zakai knew that the time was right to take the next step in their relationship. The proposal was nothing short of a fairy tale, an intimate moment shared between two people whose love had grown and deepened in the most public of arenas.
Zakai’s proposal to Tess took place in a surprise ceremony at Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee, during a break in one of the Lady Vols’ games. The arena, where both Tess and Zakai had played so many memorable games, held a special place in their hearts. It was here that their journey had started and where their love had continued to flourish. Zakai had secretly worked with the Lady Vols coaching staff and teammates to orchestrate the proposal, ensuring it would be a moment to remember.
Tess was on the court, preparing for a team huddle when Zakai, in full game attire, suddenly appeared with a microphone in hand. In front of a packed arena, he addressed the crowd, expressing his love for Tess and the journey they had shared so far. With the crowd eagerly awaiting, Zakai dropped to one knee, pulling out a ring that sparkled under the arena lights.
“Tess, you’ve been my teammate in more ways than one. You’ve supported me in ways I never expected. Now, I want to be there for you, forever,” Zakai said as he held out the ring.
Tess, overcome with emotion, was left speechless for a moment. The crowd erupted in cheers as she nodded in affirmation, accepting his proposal. As Zakai placed the ring on her finger, the couple shared a kiss, a moment that encapsulated the love and joy they felt in that beautiful, unforgettable moment. Fans and teammates alike celebrated, knowing that this couple, both of whom had worked so hard to achieve greatness in their respective careers, were now embarking on the greatest adventure of their lives together.
Life Beyond Basketball: A Relationship of Support and Understanding
Throughout their time together, Tess and Zakai have proven that their bond goes far beyond basketball. Both athletes have faced their own unique challenges, but their relationship has been a steady source of strength. Tess, who hails from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, has always been known for her toughness, determination, and leadership on the court. Her journey to becoming a key player for the Lady Vols was not without obstacles. Despite suffering from injuries early in her career, Tess never lost sight of her dream to play for the University of Tennessee and contribute to the team’s success.
Zakai, on the other hand, has faced his own set of challenges, particularly as a smaller, under-recruited player in a sport dominated by bigger and stronger athletes. Despite this, Zakai’s work ethic, drive, and competitive spirit have made him a fan favorite and an integral part of Tennessee’s basketball team. Known for his lightning-fast speed and court vision, Zakai is the type of player who inspires his teammates and fans with his hustle, energy, and passion for the game.
In many ways, their individual struggles and triumphs have shaped their relationship. They understand each other in a way few others can. Tess has been Zakai’s biggest cheerleader, attending his games and celebrating his successes. Likewise, Zakai has stood by Tess through injuries and setbacks, always reminding her of her immense talent and potential.
Their ability to support each other through the ups and downs of their careers is what sets their relationship apart. It is a relationship based on mutual respect, trust, and admiration—values that are not only important in sports but in life as well.
A Wedding Date: August 2025
As the couple embarks on this new chapter of their lives, the wedding date has been set for August 2025. The two have expressed their excitement about planning the event, eager to share their love with friends, family, and teammates. Given their deep connection to Knoxville and the University of Tennessee, it’s expected that the wedding will take place in the area, with many of their closest friends and loved ones in attendance.
While details about the ceremony itself remain under wraps, Tess and Zakai have both spoken about their desire for the event to reflect their personalities—fun, heartfelt, and filled with laughter. They’ve mentioned that the ceremony will likely include elements that celebrate their love for basketball, but will also highlight their individual journeys and the ways in which they’ve grown as a couple.
The couple has also expressed excitement about life beyond the wedding day. As they look toward the future, both Tess and Zakai are committed to continuing their basketball careers, but they also hope to explore new opportunities together. Tess has spoken about her dreams of playing professionally overseas, while Zakai has aspirations of playing in the NBA. Whatever path they choose to take, one thing is clear: they will be there for each other every step of the way.
A Love Built on Teamwork and Resilience
Tess and Zakai’s relationship is a testament to the power of teamwork and resilience. Much like their approach to basketball, they have faced challenges, worked through difficult times, and ultimately emerged stronger for it. Their journey has not been easy, but it has been filled with joy, determination, and an unwavering commitment to one another.
In many ways, their engagement is a reflection of their belief in each other, their trust in the bond they’ve built, and their desire to face the future together. Just as they’ve helped their respective teams succeed on the court, they now look forward to building a life filled with love, adventure, and shared dreams.
As fans of both Tess and Zakai eagerly await the wedding day, they are reminded that even in the world of sports, love can be the ultimate victory. Tess and Zakai’s love story is one that will continue to inspire those who watch them play and those who witness the way they support and uplift each other. From basketball courts to wedding aisles, this couple’s story is just beginning.
Looking Ahead
As Tess and Zakai prepare for the wedding of their dreams in August 2025, the future holds infinite possibilities. Whether on the basketball court, in their personal lives, or as a couple, they have shown that dedication, perseverance, and mutual support are the keys to overcoming any obstacle. With each new chapter they write together, Tess Darby and Zakai Zeigler are proving that love—like basketball—is a team effort.
In the end, their story is not just about basketball. It’s about finding someone who shares your dreams, challenges, and victories. It’s about having a teammate for life. And as they begin their journey toward marriage, it’s clear that Tess and Zakai have found exactly that in one another.
