Vanderbilt sophomore guard Tyler Tanner isn't shy about his NBA dreams—and he's backing them up with action. In a recent interview, the rising star made it clear that his ultimate goal is to make it to the league, and he's leaving no doubt about his commitment to getting there.

Coming off a standout sophomore season, Tanner was named to the All-SEC First Team after putting up impressive numbers: 19.5 points, 5.1 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.4 steals per game, while shooting 36.8% from beyond the arc. His defensive prowess was just as notable—he ranked fourth in the nation in steals (86) and 18th in total points (702), earning him a spot on the SEC All-Defensive Team.

The 6-foot guard is among 73 prospects invited to the NBA Draft Combine, which kicks off this week in Chicago. In a conversation with DraftExpress's Jonathan Givony, Tanner revealed that he's fully committed to participating in the 5-on-5 scrimmages—a move that signals his determination to boost his draft stock. "I'll do whatever it takes to stay in the draft," Tanner said. "I'm not running from anything. I love to play."

Tanner's scoring output was historic for Vanderbilt. He registered the second-highest scoring season in program history, falling just 34 points short of the all-time record held by Scotty Pippen Jr. What's more, he was the only player in the country to average at least 19 points, five assists, and two steals per game last season—a testament to his all-around impact on the floor.

At just 20 years old, Tanner is being projected as a potential late first-round pick, thanks to his scoring ability and his skill as a lead ballhandler. His defensive tenacity only adds to his appeal, as he consistently disrupted opponents throughout the season.

While Tanner declared for the draft last month, he's kept his college eligibility intact, leaving the door open for a potential return to Vanderbilt. Underclassmen have until May 27 to withdraw from the draft and head back to campus. But for now, Tanner's focus is clear. "My goal is to play in the NBA," he told Givony. "Always has been since I was a kid. I'm fully focused on making it. This is another opportunity to show what I can do—the way I make those around me better and raise the level of my teammates."

Whether he lands in the league this year or returns for another season in Nashville, one thing is certain: Tyler Tanner is a name you'll want to remember.