Throughout the 2024-25 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2025 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, questions, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Chaz Lanier
Position: Guard
Team: Tennessee
Class: Senior
Height/Weight: 6'4", 199 lbs
Birthdate: December 19, 2001
Previous School: North Florida
Player Overview
Chaz Lanier is one of the most prolific shooters in college basketball. He combines elite catch-and-shoot ability with the skill to create his own offense. His scoring versatility, particularly as a tough-shot maker, allows him to operate effectively from beyond the arc, mid-range, and at the basket. Lanier thrives in rhythm-based play, displaying excellent patience and vision, which enables him to see the floor and make decisions faster than many of his peers.
However, Lanier’s game comes with notable concerns. His tendency to become "trigger happy" when hot can lead to questionable shot selection. While his offensive rebounding showcases hustle, his defensive rebounding effort and willingness to box out are lacking. Lanier’s ball handling also lacks decisiveness, often causing him to over-dribble without purpose. His playmaking and defensive engagement will need improvement to solidify his value at the next level.
"I’m impressed by Chaz Lanier. What stands out most is his ability to shoot from the outside and knock down a variety of shots—valuable and translatable skills." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Three-Level Scoring: Lanier is effective from deep, mid-range, and at the rim, showcasing a versatile scoring arsenal.
Elite Shooting Ability: His smooth mechanics and quick release make him a dangerous perimeter threat.
Tough Shot Maker: Consistently converts difficult looks, particularly off the dribble in isolation situations.
Offensive Instincts: Reads defenses well to find open spots, relocate off-ball, and capitalize on mismatches.
Transition Offense: Excels in transition, using his speed and shooting to punish opponents on the break.
Concerns
Defensive Engagement: Struggles to stay locked in defensively, often losing focus or positioning in man-to-man coverage.
Shot Selection: He can take ill-advised shots, particularly when he forces the action in isolation.
Playmaking: Has yet to develop as a facilitator, often overlooking opportunities to set up teammates.
Physicality: Lacks the strength to consistently defend stronger opponents or finish through contact at the rim.
Questions
Can Lanier improve his defensive consistency and become a reliable two-way player?
Will his shot selection improve, allowing him to maximize his efficiency as a scorer?
Can he expand his playmaking to become a more well-rounded offensive contributor?
Bottom Line
Chaz Lanier’s elite shooting and natural scoring ability make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to add offensive firepower. While his defensive struggles and decision-making raise questions, his skill set as a tough-shot maker and floor spacer gives him a chance to carve out a role at the next level. If Lanier can improve his playmaking and defensive consistency, he could elevate his value.
Stay ahead of the game! Check out the Babcock Hoops 2025 NBA Draft Big Board to discover the top-ranked prospects and their potential draft positions.