Detroit Pistons Add Tennessee Standouts Zakai Zeigler and Chaz Lanier to NBA Summer League Roster
Dynamic Backcourt Duo Set to Showcase Talent in Las Vegas
Detroit, MI – The Detroit Pistons are turning up the heat this summer with the addition of two former Tennessee Volunteers to their NBA Summer League roster: electric point guard Zakai Zeigler and sharpshooting wing Chaz Lanier. The move not only reunites a pair of college teammates but also injects a dose of grit, energy, and Southeastern Conference (SEC) pedigree into a Pistons squad aiming to build for the future.
Zeigler, a fan-favorite during his time in Knoxville, arrives in Detroit as an undrafted free agent with plenty to prove. Despite being considered undersized at 5-foot-9, the New York native boasts an outsized impact on the court. Renowned for his relentless on-ball defense, blistering speed, and court vision, Zeigler helped steer Tennessee to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and earned All-SEC honors for his leadership and tenacity. His journey to the professional ranks has been anything but conventional, but his heart, hustle, and high basketball IQ could make him a valuable asset in the Pistons’ backcourt.
“He’s a fighter,” one NBA scout said of Zeigler. “You can’t teach the motor or the toughness he brings. He’ll be one of the most intriguing players to watch in Vegas.”
Joining Zeigler is recent second-round draft pick Chaz Lanier, selected 37th overall by the Pistons in the 2025 NBA Draft. A powerful 6-foot-4 guard known for his silky shooting stroke and ability to create space, Lanier exploded onto scouts’ radars in his final college season, where he averaged over 18 points per game while shooting above 40% from three-point range. His size, scoring ability, and defensive versatility give him a real shot at cracking Detroit’s rotation during the regular season.
Lanier and Zeigler were teammates during the 2022–23 season at Tennessee, where their chemistry was apparent on both ends of the floor. Now, with both donning Pistons colors, Detroit fans will get to see that connection rekindled under the bright lights of the Las Vegas Summer League.
For the Pistons, this Summer League roster represents more than just player evaluation—it’s a glimpse into a new era of culture and identity. Under the leadership of new head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, Detroit is emphasizing toughness, high-energy play, and player development. The inclusion of Zeigler, a natural leader and defensive pest, alongside the poised scoring of Lanier, fits that mold perfectly.
“We’re excited to see what Zakai and Chaz bring to the floor together,” said Pistons Summer League coach Jordan Ott. “They know how to compete, they’ve played on big stages, and they bring different but complementary skills. This is their chance to make a statement.”
The Pistons tip off their Summer League campaign on July 12 in Las Vegas, and all eyes will be on the Zeigler-Lanier tandem as they look to impress the coaching staff, front office, and fans alike. With the heart of Knoxville now beating in Detroit blue, the Pistons just might have found two hidden gems ready to make their mark on the next level.
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Stay tuned for more updates on Pistons Summer League action, roster breakdowns, and player performances from Las Vegas.
