The Tennessee Volunteers have found themselves back in the Sweet 16 after a comfortable win over the UCLA Bruins in the NCAA Tournament’s Round of 32. Once again advancing past the tournament’s opening weekend, the Volunteers had a strong overall game that was accentuated by some school history on offense from guard Chaz Lanier.
Chaz Lanier Makes Tennessee Volunteers History in Win Over UCLA
The Tennessee Volunteers had another strong performance on Saturday night, beating UCLA 67-58 in a game that felt much more like a blowout than an 11-point margin. While the defense continues to shine, shooting guard Chaz Lanier was the one who grabbed headlines on the offensive end after setting a school record for the most made three-pointers in a season.
LANI3R 👑
The Tennessee Basketball record for three-pointers made in a season now belongs to Chaz Lanier pic.twitter.com/446drY9crC
— Tennessee Basketball (@Vol_Hoops) March 23, 2025
After a 4-6 night from beyond the arc, Lanier has now made 120 triples on the year, breaking Chris Lofton’s single-season school record of 118. Lofton was in the house to watch Lanier break his record and make history. The guard finished with 20 points overall.
Lanier transferred to Tennessee after four years with North Florida, ready to make the next step in his basketball career. His time with the Volunteers has been nothing but spectacular and now involves some impressive school records.
Lanier was a bright spot on the night, but the victory over UCLA was a complete team performance. The Bruins were held to under 36% from the floor and were outrebounded by 10. Tennessee only committed 14 fouls and continue to be one of the teams best at defending without fouling.
The Vols had a concerning 18 turnovers, but it was nonetheless a dominant evening in every other facets. Point guard Zakai Zeigler had 15 points, 3 rebounds, and 6 assists, adding to his school-record total of dimes. Jordan Gainey had 13 points off the bench, and big men Felix Okpara and Igor Miličić Jr. had 7 boards each.
Chaz Lanier and Rick Barnes Reflect on 3-Point Record
Lanier was asked about breaking the record and was very humble about the honor, calling it a “blessing” to be in a great environment and with great teammates. He credited the screen-setting and passing of his teammates to creating all the great chances he has had to shoot the ball from deep.
Head coach Rick Barnes had high praise for Lanier’s character and ability to remain grounded.
“He hasn’t changed anything this week. He never changes. He always puts in the work. He’s a pretty cool, calm guy. He gives glory to God and he’s always grounded.”
Overall, the entire team had a good night from deep. Tennessee made 11 of their 22 looks from long-range. In addition to Lanier’s 4 treys, Gainey added 3, while Zeigler and Jahmai Mashack each made two three-pointers.
Andy Lyons, Getty Images
Fans React to Chaz Lanier’s Record
Lanier has been a fun player to watch all season, and as his dominance continues into March, fans continue to have a lot to say about him,
Chaz Lanier going full flamethrower mode will never get old pic.twitter.com/cf96mJqsFB
— Barstool SEC (@SECBarstool) March 23, 2025
Chaz. Lanier. Is. Hooping.
Give him 120 triples on the year. We’re watching Tennessee at their best tonight. Unreal defense and then when their guards start cooking from deep…good luck.
— John Fanta (@John_Fanta) March 23, 2025
CHAZ LANIER IS UNREAL. SINGLE SEASON 3 PT RECORD HOLDER.
— Barstool Rocky Top (@BarstoolTenn) March 23, 2025
I remember clips of Chaz Lanier working out in the summer. Folks commented he had a slow release. lol.
— Reed Carringer (@ReedCarringer) March 23, 2025
VOLS TO THE SWEET 16.
Yet another Chaz Lanier masterclass performance tonight.
I will see ALL of you in Indianapolis. pic.twitter.com/jh9Haouir4
— Xantiago Vescovi (@XantiagoVescovi) March 23, 2025
Tennessee will now travel to Indianapolis and await the winner of Sunday’s game between the Kentucky Wildcats and the Illinois Fighting Illini.
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