AUBURN, Ala. — Chad Baker-Mazara, a key player in Auburn's recent basketball success, announced on Thursday, April 17, 2025, that he is entering the NCAA transfer portal. This decision comes after a standout season where he played a pivotal role in leading the Tigers to the Final Four.
In his second season with Auburn, Baker-Mazara averaged 12.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, showcasing his versatility as a 6-foot-7 wing. His ability to score from deep was evident, as he shot 38.1% from three-point range, contributing significantly to the team's offensive strategies. Notably, he delivered impressive performances, including scoring 18 points against Florida in the national semifinal and back-to-back games with 22 points against Ole Miss and Kentucky.
Throughout his career, Baker-Mazara has demonstrated a knack for stepping up in critical moments. He started 34 games during the Tigers' run to the Final Four, solidifying his status as a reliable contributor on the court. His journey to Auburn began after stints at Duquesne and San Diego State, as well as a season at Northwest Florida State College. This diverse background has equipped him with a wealth of experience, making him an attractive prospect for teams looking to bolster their rosters.
"First I wanna thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to do what I love but I wanna thank my teammates, coaching staff and the Auburn Family for the incredible support for this past two years! With this been said I would be entering the transfer portal. Gracias Auburn!" Baker-Mazara expressed in his heartfelt farewell message on social media.
His departure adds to the challenges facing Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl, who now must rebuild after losing every starter from a team that earned the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA tournament. With All-American Johni Broome and fellow starters Denver Jones, Dylan Cardwell, and Miles Kelly all exhausting their eligibility, the Tigers are entering a period of significant transition.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his next destination, Baker-Mazara's talent and experience will make him one of the top names available in the transfer portal. The NCAA's recent waiver allowing athletes with junior college backgrounds an additional year of eligibility has granted him the opportunity to seek a new home for his final season.
During his time at Auburn, Baker-Mazara became known not only for his scoring ability but also for his emotional leadership on the court. He often embraced a villain-like role, drawing the ire of opposing fans while rallying his teammates. His passion and intensity were evident, as he frequently put pressure on himself to perform, a quality that both excited and frustrated his coaches.
In discussing Baker-Mazara's impact, Pearl noted, "My crazy. No, listen, passion, intensity — he cares so much. He puts a lot of pressure on himself. That’s one of the things that sometimes gets him, where he gets out of sorts a little bit. He wants to win so bad. Again, doesn’t want to disappoint his teammates. The thing I’ve told Chad is, ‘Look, you can affect the game, and the outcome of the game is winning by rebounding, by defending, by using your length, by communicating.'" Pearl's trust in Baker-Mazara was evident throughout the season, as he relied on him to make crucial plays.
As Auburn fans reflect on Baker-Mazara's contributions, they will remember him as a key figure in the program's recent successes, including two SEC championships and a Final Four appearance. His ability to adapt to various roles on the team, combined with his scoring prowess, made him a vital asset to the Tigers.
Looking ahead, Baker-Mazara's future is uncertain, but his track record suggests he will be a sought-after player in the transfer market. With his experience and skill set, he is poised to make an impact wherever he lands next. As the college basketball landscape continues to evolve, Baker-Mazara's decision to enter the transfer portal marks a significant moment in his career and for Auburn basketball.
As the transfer portal opens up new possibilities, Auburn fans will be watching closely to see how the team rebuilds and who will step up to fill the void left by Baker-Mazara and his fellow departing starters. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting chapter for both the player and the program as they navigate this transition.
