Biography

Chaz Lanier, born on December 19, grew up immersed in the world of basketball in Nashville, Tennessee. His early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for his exceptional journey as a University of North Florida (UNF) basketball player.

Lanier’s basketball prowess became evident during his high school years at Ensworth High School under the mentorship of Coach Ricky Bowers. He became a standout player, earning recognition as a finalist for the prestigious Tennessee Mr. Basketball award. Lanier’s exceptional skills on the court led to his selection as the First-team All-Conference and Conference Player of the Year during his senior year. His stellar performance earned him a spot on the DII-AA All-State team by the Tennessee Sports Writers Association. Averaging an impressive 23 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game during his final season with the Tigers, Lanier solidified his reputation as a formidable player in high school basketball.

Transitioning to collegiate basketball at the University of North Florida, Lanier continued to exhibit his talent and dedication to the sport. Throughout his tenure, he proved to be a vital asset to the UNF Ospreys, showcasing his versatility on the court. Lanier appeared in all 31 games during the 2021-22 season, earning nine starts and playing an essential role as one of the team’s key substitutions. His consistent performance and reliability were evident as he logged a total of 610 minutes, averaging 19.7 minutes per game.

Lanier’s shooting accuracy stood out, with an impressive 45.4 percent success rate on field goals and a 39.1 percent mark from three-point range. His ability to hit crucial three-pointers, particularly from the corner, made him a significant threat on the court. Notably, his standout game came during a thrilling double-overtime win against Lipscomb, his hometown team, where he went 6-for-6 from the floor, scoring a season-high 15 points and contributing significantly to the team’s victory. Lanier consistently demonstrated his scoring ability, registering points in 24 out of 31 games.

Furthermore, his performance during the 2021-22 season showcased his growth and adaptability as a player. He averaged 4.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. Lanier’s contributions extended beyond scoring, as he showcased defensive prowess by tallying three steals in multiple games. His resilience and commitment were evident in his career-best performance, playing 41 minutes and scoring 14 points in an overtime win against Stetson.

Off the court, Lanier maintains a strong academic focus, pursuing a major in business management. His family background deeply rooted in basketball, with both parents having played collegiate basketball, serves as an additional source of inspiration and support throughout his journey. Lanier’s dedication to both academics and athletics exemplifies his well-rounded approach to life as a student-athlete.

Chaz Lanier’s unwavering determination, consistent performance, and multifaceted skills continue to shape his promising career as a basketball player at the University of North Florida, leaving an indelible mark on the court and inspiring those around him.