Chaz Lanier: Volunteer Flamethrower

Chaz Lanier jumped onto the scene at Tennessee this season, torching opposing defenses with his range. But will his jumper translate to the next level?

Chaz Lanier is no ordinary sharpshooter – he caught fire at Tennessee and could never be extinguished. After transferring from North Florida, the Nashville native lit up the SEC, setting a program record with 123 made three-pointers in a single season. Lanier’s deep range and quick release made him a nightmare for defenders, propelling the Vols to the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament. Lanier’s breakout season earned him the Jerry West Award for the nation’s top shooting guard, as well as Third Team All-American and First Team All-SEC honors. With his elite shooting and proven ability to perform under pressure, Lanier has emerged as one of the most intriguing perimeter prospects in the 2025 draft.

Wesley Hale-Imagn Images

Basic Stats (2024-2025): 31.4 MIN, 18.0 PTS, 3.9 REB, 1.1 AST, 0.9 STL, 1.1 TOV, 14.8 FGA, 43.1 FG%

Pros:

• Elite perimeter shooter

  • Elite-level 3-point shooter with a quick release and NBA range – excels in C&S situations

    • Shot 39.6% from ATB & 35.5% from the corner

    • Averages an astounding 1.259 PPP in spot-up possessions

  • Effective off-ball movement – utilizes screens to create open looks

    • Runs off screens in 28.8% of possessions – averages 0.941 PPP

• Versatile scorer from all 3 levels

  • Extremely efficient scorer at the rim, from the midrange, and beyond the arc – 54.0 eFG%

  • Gets to his spots from the midrange – 40.9% shooter on 22.5% FGA%

  • Has the ability to create his own shot – especially in isolation and late-clock situations

    • 1.059 PPP in isolation scenarios

  • Utilizes body control and footwork to finish through contact in the paint – draws 2.2 fouls per game (75.8 % FT%)

• Effective decision-making with the ball in his hands – demonstrates maturity and high shot IQ

  • Maintains a low turnover rate – stays composed and does not force shots

  • Contributes within the flow of the offense – rarely over-dribbles

• Solid rebounder given his size and frame

  • Boxes out well and understands positioning on the boards

Cons:

• Limited playmaking and ball handling ability

  • Primarily a scorer – but lacks the playmaking skills to consistently create opportunities for teammates

  • Needs to develop as a facilitator in P&R situations

  • Ball handling can be shaky under pressure – susceptible to turnovers when closely guarded

• Defensive concerns

  • Must improve defensive awareness and energy level

    • Averaged 1.0 stock per game

  • Weak help defender – slow recovery speed to shooters

• Athletic upside

  • Does not possess elite athleticism – may struggle to keep up with quicker guards

Final Take: Chaz Lanier is a proficient scorer and elite shooter who can provide immediate offensive contributions, particularly from beyond the arc. His experience and maturity make him a reliable option for teams seeking bench scoring and floor spacing. However, his athletic limitations could cause teams to stray away from Lanier, and his age will undoubtedly affect his draft stock. While his playmaking and defensive abilities require improvement, his shooting prowess and efficiency offer immense value that can instantly translate to the NBA level.

Draft Projection: Late 1st Round to Early 2nd Round

Player Comp: Seth Curry; J.R. Smith