Chaz Lanier: Tennessee Basketball’s Record-Breaking Sharpshooter

In the world of college basketball, records are a significant marker of achievement. They stand as a testament to the dedication, skill, and perseverance of athletes who push themselves beyond their limits. For the Tennessee Volunteers basketball team, one of the most coveted records in recent years has been that of the most three-pointers made in a single season. And now, that record has a new owner—Chaz Lanier.

In a thrilling and historic moment, Lanier’s 120 three-pointers made this season surpassed the previous record of 118, set by the legendary Chris Lofton in the 2007-08 season. Lofton, who is often regarded as one of the greatest players in Tennessee basketball history, had set the bar high, but Lanier’s achievement not only broke that long-standing record but also elevated his name to the annals of Vols basketball lore.

The significance of this achievement extends far beyond just the number itself. It represents the evolution of Tennessee basketball in recent years and how the game, especially the shooting game, has changed. Lanier’s remarkable season isn’t just about his ability to hit from beyond the arc—it’s a reflection of his journey, the changing landscape of college basketball, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

The Road to 120: Chaz Lanier’s Journey

Before he became a household name at Tennessee, Chaz Lanier was just another talented player looking for his shot on the big stage. Lanier’s path to this record-breaking season was not an overnight one. His journey began long before his freshman year at Tennessee, growing up playing basketball with a singular focus: to master the art of shooting.

Lanier’s love for basketball started at an early age. Growing up in a family where sports were a significant part of life, Lanier was always around basketball courts. However, it was during his high school years that Lanier’s shooting ability began to stand out. Known for his smooth shooting stroke and quick release, he quickly gained recognition from coaches and scouts alike. By the time he entered college, his reputation as a sharpshooter was solidified. However, even with all his talent, Lanier knew that the journey would be long and challenging.

His first season with the Tennessee Volunteers was a learning experience. Lanier came into the program with high expectations, but the level of competition in college basketball was a significant step up from high school. His first year was marked by moments of brilliance, but also by growing pains as he adjusted to the speed and intensity of Division I basketball.

Despite these challenges, Lanier’s passion for the game never wavered. His relentless work ethic in the gym and commitment to improving his shooting mechanics slowly began to pay off. In his sophomore season, Lanier started to become a reliable contributor for Tennessee, particularly with his shooting. His ability to hit three-pointers from all over the floor was becoming a dangerous weapon in the Vols’ offensive arsenal.

The Rise of the Three-Point Shot

Chaz Lanier’s achievement is indicative of the broader shift in basketball strategy over the past decade: the rise of the three-point shot. While previous generations of basketball focused on mid-range jumpers and post plays, modern basketball has seen an explosion of three-point attempts, fueled by an emphasis on spacing the floor, pace, and shooting proficiency. Lanier is part of this new wave of players who are reshaping how the game is played.

In recent years, the three-point shot has become one of the most potent weapons in basketball. Coaches, players, and analysts have all come to appreciate its value—both as a tool to stretch defenses and as a way to generate quick points. For Lanier, his ability to shoot from long range fits perfectly into this modern approach to the game. What sets him apart, though, is not just his ability to shoot from beyond the arc but his consistency. Lanier doesn’t just make threes; he makes them at a volume that has never been seen before in Tennessee basketball.

During the 2024-2025 season, Lanier’s three-point shooting ability reached unprecedented heights. It was clear early on that he had the potential to break Lofton’s record. Each game, as he hit more and more shots, the tension built. Fans and commentators alike began to keep a close eye on his progress, tracking the number of threes he had made. The Vols’ offense was centered around Lanier’s shooting, and as he continued to knock down shots, it became evident that the record was within his grasp.

The Record-Breaking Moment

The moment that Chaz Lanier set the new Tennessee basketball record for most three-pointers made in a season came in a thrilling game that captured the attention of fans and media across the country. With each shot, Lanier seemed to grow more confident, and with each make, it became increasingly clear that history was being made right before their eyes.

Finally, it came down to one shot. With his team leading by a comfortable margin and the game nearing its conclusion, Lanier found himself open beyond the arc, the crowd holding its collective breath. Without hesitation, he released the ball. The shot sailed through the air and swished through the net—his 120th three-pointer of the season. The crowd erupted into jubilation as Lanier was mobbed by his teammates.

In that moment, Lanier not only broke a record that had stood for over 17 years but also solidified his place in Tennessee basketball history. His performance in that game and throughout the season was a culmination of years of hard work, discipline, and unwavering dedication to his craft.

What This Means for Tennessee Basketball

Chaz Lanier’s achievement is significant not just because of the number itself but also because of what it represents for Tennessee basketball. The 118 three-pointers made by Chris Lofton in 2007-08 had become a symbol of excellence, a record that was thought to be nearly untouchable. Lofton, a beloved figure in Vols basketball, had set a standard that many believed would stand the test of time.

However, Lanier’s breaking of that record signals a shift in the program. It shows that Tennessee basketball is not just living in the shadow of past greatness; it is evolving and embracing the modern game. Under head coach Rick Barnes, Tennessee has become a nationally respected program that plays a style of basketball that emphasizes speed, shooting, and spacing. Lanier’s record-breaking season is a testament to the success of this philosophy.

Moreover, Lanier’s achievement is a nod to the growing importance of three-point shooting in college basketball as a whole. Teams across the country are shifting towards a more perimeter-oriented offense, and players like Lanier are becoming the stars of the game. His ability to hit shots from deep has made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses, and his consistency has allowed Tennessee to compete at the highest levels.

The Future of Chaz Lanier

While Chaz Lanier’s record-breaking season is a monumental achievement, it is by no means the end of his journey. Lanier still has more basketball to play, and given his dedication and work ethic, there is no telling how much further he can go. As the Vols continue to compete in the SEC and beyond, Lanier will undoubtedly remain one of the team’s most dangerous weapons.

The NBA is also on the horizon for Lanier. While his three-point shooting has already garnered attention from scouts, his overall game continues to improve. Lanier’s success at the collegiate level is just a preview of what he could accomplish in the professional ranks. Whether or not he chooses to pursue a career in the NBA, it is clear that Lanier has the potential to play at the next level, and his future in basketball looks incredibly bright.

Legacy and Impact

Chaz Lanier’s record-breaking season will be remembered as one of the defining moments in Tennessee basketball history. His name will be forever etched into the record books, alongside legends like Chris Lofton, Allan Houston, and Dale Ellis. More importantly, though, his achievement will inspire future generations of players to shoot for the stars and to never stop working toward their goals.

For current and future players at Tennessee, Lanier’s story is a testament to the power of persistence and the value of embracing change. His journey from a promising shooter to a record-breaking player underscores the importance of evolution in basketball—adapting to the new era while still honoring the legacy of those who came before.

As Lanier continues to write his story in Tennessee basketball history, fans will undoubtedly look back at this season with pride. The record is his now, but the legacy of his hard work and determination will live on, inspiring future Vols players and basketball lovers everywhere to reach for greatness.