Head coach Bruce Pearl revealed on Friday that Baker-Mazara still has a year of eligibility remaining and suggested he could return for another season.
“Chad meets all the eligibility requirements, so he has another year without needing any kind of appeal,” Pearl explained. “He’s the one who qualifies at this point.”
Other Auburn players may also be eligible for an extra year based on NCAA decisions. This includes UAH transfer Chaney Johnson and New Market native Denver Jones, due to their respective starts at the Division II and junior college levels.
Baker-Mazara began his college career at Duquesne, where he averaged 9.5 points and 2.9 rebounds per game, shooting 41% from beyond the arc. He later transferred to San Diego State for a season, averaging 6.4 points per game, before spending time at Northwest Florida State College. He joined Auburn in 2023.
Now in his second season with the Tigers, Baker-Mazara has become a key contributor, posting averages of 13.1 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists per game. The versatile 6-foot-7 forward has filled various roles on the team and shown leadership on and off the court, often embracing a “villain” role during away games.
He recently filled in at point guard during a game against Texas A&M due to Denver Jones’ absence, and Pearl said that could continue next season.
“He’s got playmaking ability — for himself and others — when the ball is in his hands,” said Pearl.