Chaz Lanier has quickly become a compelling name in the 2025 NBA Draft conversation after a breakout year at Tennessee and an impressive NBA Draft Combine performance. A transfer from North Florida, Lanier showcased elite shooting and shot creation in his lone SEC season.
Despite concerns over his age, limited size, and playmaking, he remains a potential second-rounder with first-round buzz. He earned Wooden All-American honors and captured the Jerry West Award as the nation’s top shooting guard. If the Kings believe his college production translates, Lanier could be a ready-made contributor at the next level.
Chaz Lanier Draft Profile: Tennessee Star Climbing Into First-Round Talk
Lanier has rapidly emerged as one of the more intriguing names in the 2025 NBA Draft class.
After four years at North Florida, the guard transferred to Tennessee and immediately elevated his stock, producing 18.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 0.9 steals per game on 43.1% shooting from the field, 39.5% from three, and 75.8% from the free-throw line.
Competing in the SEC, widely considered the toughest conference in college basketball, Lanier’s scoring ability stood out.
At the NBA Draft Combine, he measured 6’4″ and 206 pounds with an impressive 6’9″ wingspan. Known for his shooting versatility, he’s effective coming off screens, relocating without the ball, and pulling up off the dribble. His quick release, deep shooting range, and ability to hit tough, contested shots make him a scoring threat at all three levels.
Despite those offensive tools, there are concerns. Lanier’s limited physicality restricts his ability to finish at the rim—only 13% of his attempts came at the basket, per Synergy.
Defensively, he’s not known for stopping ball-handlers or making impactful reads off the ball. His playmaking also raises questions, as he struggles with accuracy and doesn’t create consistently in pick-and-roll situations.
ESPN’s Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo project Lanier to be selected 42nd overall by the Sacramento Kings in their post-lottery mock draft. Sacramento does not own a first-round pick this year, as their 13th overall selection will go to Atlanta due to protections, but they do hold the Bulls’ second-rounder.
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Lanier earned the Jerry West Award, given to the top shooting guard in college basketball, and was named a Wooden All-American, solidifying his status as a top-tier college player. While the Kings may prioritize positional need, Lanier’s polished scoring skill set could be hard to pass up if his game translates to the next level.
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