(BCSNN) — Tennessee basketball star Zakai Zeigler has filed a lawsuit against the NCAA in an effort to secure a fifth year of eligibility. The two-time Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Year is challenging the NCAA’s rule that limits athletes to four seasons of competition within a five-year window, arguing that it unfairly restricts his ability to continue playing while pursuing graduate studies.

Zeigler’s legal team, Litson PLLC, has requested a preliminary injunction that would allow him to compete in the upcoming 2025-26 season. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, contends that the NCAA’s eligibility restrictions violate federal and state antitrust laws. Zeigler, who graduated from Tennessee earlier this month, is seeking to overturn the rule that prevents him from playing a fifth season despite not redshirting during his collegiate career.

The case comes amid broader discussions about NCAA eligibility rules and athlete compensation. Zeigler’s lawsuit argues that the current system deprives players of their most lucrative year of NIL earnings, citing projections that he could earn between $2 million and $4 million if granted another season. His legal team is pushing for a swift resolution, hoping to secure his eligibility before the start of the next basketball season.

Zeigler, who averaged 13.6 points and 7.4 assists last season, has been a cornerstone of Tennessee’s success, helping lead the Volunteers to consecutive Elite Eight appearances. His fight for an additional year could set a precedent for future athletes seeking extended eligibility. As the legal battle unfolds, Tennessee fans and college basketball analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Zeigler’s efforts result in a landmark decision for NCAA athletes.