Kentucky Players Find ‘Extra Motivation’ After Seeing Picture of Zakai Zeigler Flipping Off UK Logo

Kentucky Players Find ‘Extra Motivation’ After Seeing Picture of Zakai Zeigler Flipping Off UK Logo

The Kentucky Wildcats don’t need much motivation when facing Tennessee, but a recent image of Vols guard Zakai Zeigler flipping off the UK logo has given them an extra edge heading into their next showdown.

According to multiple reports, Kentucky players became aware of the image in the days leading up to their upcoming matchup with Tennessee. The photo, which surfaced on social media, appears to show Zeigler making the gesture toward the Kentucky logo, sparking frustration within the Wildcats’ locker room.

For a rivalry as heated as Kentucky vs. Tennessee, moments like these only add fuel to the fire. While the two programs already have a deep-seated animosity on the court, this latest incident has given Kentucky players a personal reason to play with even more intensity.

“I saw it, and yeah, we’re aware of it,” one Kentucky player said. “It’s just more motivation for us. We already want to win, but seeing something like that makes it even more personal.”

While Zeigler has yet to publicly comment on the image, its impact is clear—Kentucky is taking it personally. Whether the gesture was meant as a playful jab or a genuine expression of disdain, it has resonated with the Wildcats, who now have an added chip on their shoulder.

Kentucky head coach John Calipari has always emphasized blocking out distractions, but even he acknowledged that his players have taken note of the picture.

“I don’t think we need any extra motivation for this game,” Calipari said when asked about the situation. “But if it gives them something to play harder for, so be it. At the end of the day, it’s about execution, not emotions.”

Tennessee, led by head coach Rick Barnes, has embraced the rivalry just as much as Kentucky. The Vols have been one of the few teams to consistently challenge the Wildcats in recent years, and Zeigler has been at the center of that battle. His fiery personality and relentless defensive play have made him a fan favorite in Knoxville—and a villain in Lexington.

For Kentucky, channeling their emotions the right way will be key. The Wildcats have had moments this season where their intensity has worked against them, leading to foul trouble or lapses in execution. If they let their frustration over the Zeigler photo take them out of their game plan, Tennessee could use that to its advantage.

On the other hand, if Kentucky uses it as a source of focus and determination, it could be just what they need to flip the script. With both teams eyeing a deep run in March, every win matters—and this matchup just became even more personal.

Whether Zeigler’s gesture was intentional or simply a heated moment caught on camera, the message was received loud and clear in Lexington. Now, it’s up to Kentucky to respond—on the court.