Chaz Lanier, a standout guard for the Tennessee Volunteers, has earned an invitation to participate in the NBA Draft Combine, a significant step in the professional basketball journey for many college athletes. This invitation highlights Lanier’s strong impact during his time in Knoxville, where he made the most of his single season donning the orange and white uniform of the Volunteers. His performance throughout the season not only turned heads within the college basketball community but also caught the attention of NBA scouts and executives.
Lanier’s season with Tennessee was nothing short of remarkable. As a key contributor and an undeniable leader on the court, Lanier played a critical role in elevating the Volunteers to national prominence during the 2024–2025 NCAA season. His presence on the team brought a sense of maturity, drive, and consistency that helped Tennessee maintain a high level of performance throughout the year.
Joining the Tennessee program with high expectations, Lanier seamlessly integrated himself into the team’s system, quickly earning the respect of both his teammates and coaching staff. His dedication during practices, his calm demeanor under pressure, and his relentless work ethic set him apart as more than just a talented player — he was a driving force for the team. Lanier’s leadership was evident not only in the stat sheet but also in the way he carried himself on and off the court, often being a vocal leader and an emotional anchor for the team.
Throughout the season, the Volunteers climbed to the No. 1 spot in the national rankings, a testament to their cohesiveness as a team and the individual brilliance of players like Lanier. While much of the success can be attributed to a collective team effort, Lanier’s contributions in key games often provided the spark the team needed. His scoring ability, court vision, and tenacious defense allowed the Vols to compete at the highest level in one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball.
One of the most memorable aspects of Lanier’s season was Tennessee’s run to the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament. This deep tournament run not only validated the team’s status as a national powerhouse but also gave Lanier a chance to showcase his skills on a larger stage. With the eyes of the nation — and NBA scouts — focused on March Madness, Lanier’s performances helped solidify his reputation as a player capable of excelling in high-pressure situations.
Tennessee’s journey through the NCAA Tournament was a testament to their resilience, teamwork, and preparation. Each round presented new challenges, but Lanier’s steady hand at the guard position helped navigate the team through some of the most intense moments of the season. Whether he was hitting clutch shots, setting up teammates for scoring opportunities, or locking down opposing guards on defense, Lanier consistently stepped up when the team needed him most.
Unfortunately, the Volunteers’ championship hopes came to an end in the Elite Eight, where they faced off against a formidable Houston Cougars squad. Despite a hard-fought game, Tennessee came up short, ending their season just shy of a Final Four appearance. While the loss was undoubtedly disappointing, it did not diminish the incredible achievements of the team — or of Lanier’s contributions throughout the season.
The conclusion of Tennessee’s season marked the beginning of a new chapter for Lanier. With his college career wrapped up, he now turns his focus toward the NBA, beginning with the NBA Draft Combine. This event serves as a crucial opportunity for aspiring professionals to demonstrate their athletic abilities, basketball IQ, and potential in front of coaches, general managers, and scouts from across the league. For Lanier, the invitation alone is a reflection of the respect he has earned within the basketball community.
At the Combine, Lanier will participate in a variety of drills, scrimmages, and interviews designed to evaluate his readiness for the professional level. His performance in these settings could determine how teams perceive him as a potential draft pick. With his blend of experience, skill, and leadership qualities, Lanier is poised to make a strong impression.
Earning an NBA Combine invite is no small feat and speaks volumes about Lanier’s work ethic and growth as a player. Just one year ago, he had yet to play a game for Tennessee. Now, he stands on the verge of realizing a dream shared by countless athletes — playing in the NBA. His path to this point has been defined by perseverance, adaptability, and a constant desire to improve.
Lanier’s story also reflects positively on the Tennessee Volunteers program, which continues to produce high-level talent capable of making the leap to the professional ranks. His success is a testament to the coaching staff’s ability to develop players and to the culture of excellence that has become synonymous with Tennessee basketball in recent years.
As the NBA Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Lanier and how he performs in the pre-draft process. Whether or not he hears his name called on draft night, the journey he’s taken to reach this stage has already set him up for success, both on and off the court. From leading his college team to national prominence to now stepping into the spotlight of the NBA Combine, Chaz Lanier’s basketball journey is one that continues to inspire and impress.
With the draft looming, it’s clear that Lanier’s time in Tennessee will be remembered as a pivotal chapter in both his career and the Volunteers’ storied basketball history. His leadership, resilience, and standout play have left a lasting impression — and now, he’s ready to take the next step on basketball’s biggest stage.
