Chaz Lanier Set to Continue Tennessee’s NBA Draft Streak

KNOXVILLE, Tennessee — Chaz Lanier is poised to make history as he approaches the 2025 NBA Draft. The former Tennessee Volunteer is projected to be picked, which would mark the fifth consecutive year a player from the University of Tennessee has been selected in the draft.

This streak follows a series of successful selections, including Dalton Knecht in 2024, Julian Phillips in 2023, Kennedy Chandler in 2022, and Keon Johnson and Jaden Springer in 2021. Such a streak would be the longest for the Volunteers since the NBA adopted a two-round draft format in 1989.

Lanier’s success showcases not only his dedication but also the consistency of the Tennessee basketball program under head coach Rick Barnes. The program has established itself as a key pipeline to the NBA, able to attract top high school talents and impactful transfers. NBA teams are increasingly looking for versatile players who can shoot and defend, characteristics Lanier embodies.

As the draft date approaches, Lanier’s name is featured prominently in projections. He is expected to be selected in the second round, potentially by the San Antonio Spurs at No. 38 overall. This follows his impressive performance during the 2024-25 season, where he averaged 18.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. He also set a program record for three-pointers made in a single season, sinking 123 shots.

Lanier’s hard work has been recognized, earning him the Second-Team All-SEC nod and the SEC Newcomer of the Year award. His skills led him to be a finalist for the John R. Wooden Award and to receive Third-Team All-America honors from both NABC and The Sporting News.

As excitement builds in Knoxville and the basketball community, all eyes are focused on the outcome for Lanier at the draft. The event is set to be held at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, with the first round starting on Wednesday night at 8 p.m. EDT, followed by the second round on Thursday at the same time.