Chaz Lanier, Tennessee’s standout shooting guard, capped off a remarkable 2024-25 season by earning Third-Team All-American honors from both the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) and The Sporting News, two of the four organizations recognized by the NCAA for All-America selections.
A Historic Season for Lanier and Tennessee
Lanier transferred to Tennessee from North Florida and immediately made an impact, emerging as the Volunteers’ leading scorer. In his lone season at Tennessee, the fifth-year guard averaged 17.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game during the regular season. His shooting prowess was especially notable, as he connected on 40.5 percent of his three-point attempts while averaging over eight attempts per game-making him one of only three Division I players, and the only one in a Power Five conference, to shoot above 40 percent from deep on such high volume.
Lanier finished the season ranked in the national top 10 in both total made three-pointers (105) and threes per game (3.39). Within the SEC, he was third in both three-point percentage and total made field goals, and fifth in scoring average. His consistent scoring and perimeter shooting helped power Tennessee to a 30-8 record, including a deep run to the Elite Eight, marking the program’s first 30-win season and regional final appearance in the same year.
All-American Recognition
The Sporting News was the first to release its All-America teams, with Lanier and teammate Zakai Zeigler both earning Third-Team honors, making them only the second pair of Tennessee teammates to achieve All-America status in the same season. The NABC followed, also placing Lanier and Zeigler on its Third Team, an accolade determined by Division I coaches across the country. This dual recognition solidifies Lanier’s place among the elite players in college basketball and marks him as the 28th official All-American in Tennessee program history.
Career Trajectory and Legacy
Lanier’s journey from a backup at North Florida to a star at Tennessee is a testament to his development and adaptability. After averaging 19.7 points per game as a senior at North Florida, he transferred to Tennessee and seamlessly transitioned into a leading role. His debut for the Volunteers included an 18-point performance, and he continued to deliver in high-profile games throughout the season.
With Third-Team All-American honors from both the NABC and The Sporting News, as well as additional accolades such as SEC Newcomer of the Year and a spot as a Wooden Award All-American finalist, Lanier’s 2024-25 campaign stands as one of the most impressive single-season performances in recent Tennessee basketball history.
Conclusion
Chaz Lanier’s All-American selections by both the NABC and The Sporting News reflect his exceptional impact on Tennessee’s success and his status as one of the nation’s premier shooting guards. His story exemplifies the value of perseverance and adaptability, and his achievements will be remembered as a high point in Volunteer basketball lore.
