Tennessee’s Chaz Lanier Impresses Scouts with Elite Shooting Ahead of NBA Draft
As the NBA Draft approaches, Tennessee Volunteers guard Chaz Lanier is turning heads with his exceptional shooting skills and draft readiness. After an impressive season at Tennessee, where he averaged 18 points per game and shot nearly 40% from beyond the arc, Lanier has emerged as one of the top sharpshooters in the 2025 draft class.
During the NBA Draft Combine, Lanier solidified his reputation by topping several shooting drills, including the spot-up and free-throw shooting categories. His smooth release, consistent mechanics, and range impressed scouts and executives from across the league. Analysts now consider him the best pure shooter available in the draft.
“I’ve always worked on my shot, and I wanted to show that it can translate to the next level,” Lanier said in an interview following the Combine. “This is what I’ve been preparing for.”
Lanier’s recent workout with the Brooklyn Nets, who currently hold the 26th, 27th, and 36th picks, drew particular interest. The Nets are reportedly intrigued by his scoring potential and basketball IQ. Lanier praised the organization’s culture and said he would be “honored” to join a team that values player development and team-first basketball.
His climb up the draft boards is a testament to his steady development under Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes, who has a strong track record of preparing guards for the NBA. Lanier’s combination of shooting, maturity, and off-ball movement has scouts projecting him as a potential late first-round pick.
With his draft stock rising and momentum building, Chaz Lanier may soon hear his name called earlier than expected. As teams seek reliable perimeter scoring, the Tennessee standout has made a compelling case for a prominent spot on draft night.
