Vanderbilt's Tyler Tanner Returns for Final College Season Amid NBA Interest
Jan 24, 2026; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores head coach Mark Byington talks with guard Tyler Tanner (3) during the first half against Mississippi State at Humphrey Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

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Tyler Tanner, a standout guard for the Vanderbilt Commodores, will return for his senior year after a breakout season that positioned him as a potential NBA draft pick. Coach Mark Byington supports Tanner's decision, emphasizing the need for further development before entering the professional league.
- 01Tyler Tanner averaged 19.5 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game during the 2025-26 season.
- 02Tanner was highly regarded by NBA executives, but they suggested he gain strength and experience before declaring for the draft.
- 03He was ranked in 13 of KenPom’s 18 individual efficiency metrics, showcasing his overall performance.
- 04Coach Mark Byington believes Tanner will be an NBA player after one more college season.
- 05Tanner's return is seen as a strategic move to enhance his draft stock for the 2026 NBA draft.
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Tyler Tanner, the point guard for the Vanderbilt Commodores, will return for his senior season after a remarkable sophomore year, which has drawn attention from NBA scouts. Coach Mark Byington noted Tanner's standout performance, where he averaged 19.5 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game, while shooting 48.5% from the field and 36.8% from three-point range. Despite being a fringe first-round pick for the 2026 NBA draft, Tanner's camp, including Byington, agreed that another year in college would be beneficial. NBA executives have expressed a desire to see Tanner physically develop and gain more experience before making the leap to professional basketball. Byington has consistently gathered feedback from NBA scouts, who appreciate Tanner's offensive skills and defensive anticipation. Tanner's return is seen as a strategic decision that could solidify his position as one of Vanderbilt's all-time greats, following the predictions made by former assistant Adam Mazarei. Byington is optimistic that Tanner will transition to the NBA after one more successful season.
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Tanner's decision to return for another season could enhance the competitiveness of the Vanderbilt basketball program and attract more attention from fans and recruits.
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