Mesoporous ZnCo₂O₄ microsheets are successfully obtained by using a MOF as a precursor. Benefiting from the special structure with favorable electron-transfer and Li-ion diffusion properties, the sample calcined at 600 °C exhibits superior lithium storage capacity of 816.2 mA h g⁻¹ at 100 mA g⁻¹ after 100 cycles, which has great application potential.