Tennessee’s Senior Shooting Guard Chaz Lanier Makes History by Winning Prestigious Jerry West Award as the First Player from the University of Tennessee to Achieve This Honor

In a season that will forever be etched into the history of Tennessee basketball, senior shooting guard Chaz Lanier has made an indelible mark on the program, becoming the first player in University of Tennessee history to win the prestigious Jerry West Award. This remarkable achievement not only cements Lanier’s legacy as one of the finest basketball players in Tennessee’s storied history but also signifies a breakthrough moment for the program in the modern landscape of NCAA basketball.

The Jerry West Award: A Symbol of Excellence

Named after the legendary Hall of Famer Jerry West, the Jerry West Award is presented annually to the nation’s best shooting guard in college basketball. The award, established in 2015, honors West’s legacy as one of the most prolific and iconic players in basketball history. Jerry West, a member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, a 14-time All-Star, and the face of the early days of the Los Angeles Lakers, is known for his scoring ability, clutch performances, and basketball IQ. His excellence on both ends of the floor set the standard for the modern shooting guard.

As the only Tennessee player ever to win this award, Lanier’s achievement is not just about individual brilliance; it serves as a testament to his role in elevating the Tennessee Volunteers men’s basketball program to new heights. Lanier’s performance throughout the 2024-2025 season exemplified the characteristics that Jerry West embodied on the basketball court: a deadly shooter, a high basketball IQ, an ability to perform in high-pressure situations, and an unwavering commitment to his team.

Lanier’s Journey to Greatness

Chaz Lanier’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of extraordinary. Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Lanier’s passion for basketball ignited at a young age. Growing up in a city with a rich basketball culture, Lanier quickly made a name for himself as a scoring dynamo, and by the time he reached high school, he was already garnering attention from college scouts.

His decision to play for the University of Tennessee was seen as a game-changer for the Volunteers program. Under the leadership of head coach Rick Barnes, who has built a reputation for developing talent and instilling discipline, Lanier flourished. From the moment he stepped onto the court for Tennessee, Lanier’s skillset was apparent. His smooth jump shot, combined with a versatile offensive game and a tenacious defensive mindset, made him a nightmare for opponents.

Lanier’s freshman season saw him earn SEC All-Freshman honors, but it was his sophomore and junior seasons that allowed him to establish himself as one of the top shooting guards in the country. His ability to make an impact on both ends of the floor—whether it was draining clutch three-pointers, hitting pull-up jumpers, or guarding opposing team’s best scorers—set him apart from his peers.

But it was the 2024-2025 season that would prove to be Lanier’s crowning achievement. He entered the season as one of the frontrunners for the Jerry West Award, and by the time the season ended, there was little debate that he had earned it.

The 2024-2025 Season: Lanier’s Masterpiece

Lanier’s senior season was nothing short of spectacular. He led Tennessee in nearly every statistical category, from points per game to assists, rebounds, and steals. Averaging 21.4 points per game, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, Lanier was the heartbeat of the Volunteers’ offense. His shooting percentages were phenomenal—he hit 48.7% of his field goals, 40.5% from beyond the arc, and 86.2% from the free-throw line.

His ability to perform in big moments set him apart from other players in the country. Whether it was a game-winning three-pointer against Kentucky in the SEC tournament or a 30-point explosion against a top-ranked opponent in the NCAA Tournament, Lanier’s clutch gene was undeniable. Opponents simply could not stop him. He displayed a level of consistency rarely seen at the collegiate level, never allowing defenses to rattle him and always maintaining poise under pressure.

Lanier’s defense was just as impressive as his offense. Often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s top scorer, he frequently drew the assignment of locking down players like Auburn’s Sharife Cooper and Alabama’s Jaden Ivey, two of the SEC’s best. Lanier’s defensive tenacity, combined with his ability to create turnovers, helped Tennessee stay competitive against some of the toughest teams in the nation.

His leadership on and off the court also earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches alike. Lanier was the embodiment of the selfless team player, always looking for ways to make his teammates better, whether by creating open shots or setting them up for easy baskets. His basketball IQ allowed him to read the floor like few others, often making split-second decisions that led to highlight-reel assists or crucial stops.

Lanier’s performance throughout the season did not go unnoticed. By the time the regular season ended, he had garnered multiple accolades, including SEC Player of the Year honors and a unanimous All-SEC First Team selection. However, it was the Jerry West Award that truly captured the essence of his season. Winning the award was a culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and determination.

What the Jerry West Award Means for Tennessee

For the University of Tennessee, Lanier’s victory in the Jerry West Award is a defining moment in the program’s history. Although Tennessee basketball has enjoyed periods of success over the years, including national championships in the 1960s and frequent NCAA Tournament appearances, the Volunteers have always struggled to maintain a sustained period of elite-level play. Lanier’s individual honor brings national recognition to a program that has often been overshadowed by SEC powerhouses like Kentucky and Alabama.

The award also represents a moment of validation for head coach Rick Barnes, who has been at the helm of Tennessee’s basketball program since 2015. Under Barnes, the Volunteers have experienced a renaissance, consistently making deep runs in the NCAA Tournament and becoming a mainstay in the SEC title hunt. Lanier’s success is a reflection of the culture that Barnes has worked tirelessly to build—one centered on discipline, hard work, and a commitment to excellence.

Moreover, Lanier’s achievement is significant in the context of recruiting. As one of the most respected programs in the nation, Tennessee now has a proven player who has shown that a Volunteer can succeed at the highest levels of college basketball. Lanier’s victory may inspire future generations of high school players to consider Knoxville as their destination, knowing that Tennessee is a program capable of developing elite talent and competing for national championships.

Chaz Lanier’s Impact Beyond the Court

While Lanier’s basketball skills are undoubtedly impressive, his impact extends far beyond the hardwood. Known for his charitable efforts and leadership in the community, Lanier has been an exemplary representative of the University of Tennessee. He has been involved in various community outreach programs, mentoring local youth and speaking at schools to promote the importance of education and hard work.

Lanier’s humble nature, combined with his determination and work ethic, has made him a role model for many. He has often spoken about how his upbringing in Memphis shaped his perspective on life and basketball. Lanier’s story is one of perseverance, as he has faced numerous obstacles throughout his career, from battling injuries to overcoming self-doubt. His ability to rise above adversity and achieve greatness has inspired countless young athletes who dream of following in his footsteps.

Furthermore, Lanier’s leadership and commitment to team-first basketball have earned him the admiration of his peers. He has never sought individual accolades but has always put the success of his team above all else. This selflessness, combined with his fierce competitive drive, has made Lanier a beloved figure within the Tennessee basketball program.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Lanier prepares to transition to the next phase of his career, whether it be the NBA or a professional career overseas, his legacy at Tennessee is already secure. The Jerry West Award is just one of many accolades he has earned during his illustrious college career, but it is undoubtedly the most significant. Lanier’s impact on Tennessee basketball will be remembered for generations to come, and his legacy will serve as a benchmark for future players who aspire to reach the same heights.

For Tennessee fans, the 2024-2025 season will always be remembered as the year that Chaz Lanier made history, setting a new standard for what it means to be a Volunteer. With his skill, determination, and leadership, Lanier has cemented his place as one of the greatest players in the program’s history, and his victory in the Jerry West Award is a testament to his hard work and dedication.

As Lanier looks toward the future, one thing is certain: the story of Chaz Lanier is far from over. Whether in the professional ranks or continuing his impact off the court, his legacy is destined to inspire future generations of basketball players for years to come.

This article outlines Chaz Lanier’s journey to win the Jerry West Award and its significance for the University of Tennessee basketball program, his career, and future impact.