In a pivotal pre-draft workout on Monday, Tennessee guard Chaz Lanier showcased his sharpshooting prowess to the Detroit Pistons’ front office, potentially influencing their decision for the 37th overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft.
Lanier, a 23-year-old Nashville native, transferred from North Florida to Tennessee for his final collegiate season. He quickly became a standout, averaging 18 points per game with shooting splits of 43% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 76% from the free-throw line. His performance earned him the Jerry West Award as the nation’s top shooting guard.
At the NBA Draft Combine, Lanier impressed scouts by leading all guards in standing vertical leap and ranking highly in spot-up and free-throw shooting drills. Despite concerns about his age and average defensive metrics, his maturity and elite shooting have kept him in consideration for teams seeking immediate offensive contributions.
The Pistons, holding the 37th pick, are evaluating prospects who can provide immediate impact. Lanier’s consistent shooting and experience make him a compelling option for a team looking to bolster its perimeter scoring.
As the draft approaches on June 25, Lanier’s performance in workouts and his proven track record at the collegiate level position him as a strong candidate to be selected in the second round. His potential fit with the Pistons could mark the beginning of a promising professional career in Detroit.