BREAKING: Tennessee Star Chaz Lanier Secures Pre-Draft Workout with Detroit Pistons – Vols Nation Ablaze with First-Round Hopes

University of Tennessee basketball standout Chaz Lanier has taken a major step forward in his NBA journey, scheduling a highly anticipated pre-draft workout with the Detroit Pistons. The news, which broke late Tuesday night, has sent shockwaves through the Volunteer fanbase and reignited speculation that Lanier may sneak into the first round of this month’s NBA Draft.

The 6-foot-4 sharpshooter, who transferred to Tennessee from North Alabama ahead of the 2024-25 season, has quickly become one of the most talked-about prospects among draft circles. With a smooth shooting stroke, an uncanny ability to create space, and a knack for making clutch plays, Lanier impressed scouts during his lone season in Knoxville. Now, with a personal invitation from an NBA franchise known for developing young talent, his professional dream inches closer to reality.

Lanier’s impact on the Volunteers was immediate and undeniable. Despite playing in a system already loaded with talent and defensive intensity under head coach Rick Barnes, Lanier carved out a crucial role thanks to his consistent outside shooting and high basketball IQ. He averaged over 15 points per game and shot nearly 41% from beyond the arc, a figure that drew the attention of NBA front offices seeking reliable perimeter scorers.

Vols fans quickly embraced Lanier as a key piece of their deep NCAA tournament run. Whether it was his timely three-pointers in close SEC contests or his poise under pressure in March Madness, Lanier’s composure and talent never faltered. Now, the question shifts from college contributions to pro potential.

The Pistons, who hold several picks in this year’s draft, are in the midst of a rebuild centered around young core players like Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Ausar Thompson. Detroit’s interest in Lanier suggests they see him as a possible complement to that foundation—a floor spacer who can also handle secondary playmaking duties.

The pre-draft workout is more than just a box to check. These sessions give teams a close look at a player’s skills, conditioning, attitude, and competitiveness. Lanier’s invitation to Detroit indicates serious interest, and should he impress the Pistons’ coaching staff and front office, his draft stock could rise substantially.

Chaz has the kind of offensive toolkit that fits really well in today’s NBA,” said one Eastern Conference scout familiar with his game. “He’s smart, he works hard, and he doesn’t shy away from big moments. If he lands on the right team, he could easily outplay his draft position.”

Prior to the NBA Draft Combine, Lanier was viewed by many analysts as a potential second-round selection or an undrafted gem. But since showing out in private workouts and generating buzz from multiple teams, that narrative is quickly shifting. Some mock drafts now have him going late in the first round or early in the second, depending on how the remaining workouts unfold.

Lanier’s stock has also benefited from what scouts describe as a “thin” shooting class. While there are elite-level athletes and combo guards available, pure shooters with Lanier’s level of polish and maturity are scarce. That scarcity could work in his favor, especially for playoff-caliber teams seeking immediate bench production.

Tennessee fans, never shy about championing their own, are eagerly following every development. Social media exploded with reactions to the news of the Pistons workout, with many Vols supporters already picturing Lanier in an NBA jersey.

Coach Rick Barnes also weighed in during a recent interview, expressing full confidence in Lanier’s ability to succeed at the next level.

Chaz has always approached the game the right way,” Barnes said. “His work ethic, his feel for the game, his maturity—he’s ready. Whichever team gets him is going to be very lucky.”

Lanier’s schedule is expected to include several more workouts leading up to the June 26–27 draft, with interest reportedly coming from teams in both conferences. Each appearance offers him a new chance to rise on draft boards and solidify his standing among this year’s most intriguing guard prospects.