Auburn’s Chad Baker-Mazara Sparks Controversy with Bold NCAA Tournament Comments
Auburn forward Chad Baker-Mazara is no stranger to intensity on the court, but his latest off-court comments have set the college basketball world on fire. During a media session ahead of the NCAA Tournament, Baker-Mazara made headlines when he didn’t hold back about which team he hopes to see eliminated early.
“I don’t care who they play—I just want them out,” Baker-Mazara said with a smirk when asked about his tournament predictions. “They talk too much, they play dirty, and honestly, they don’t deserve to be here.”
Though he didn’t name the team outright, speculation immediately pointed toward a heated SEC rival—Kentucky. The Tigers and Wildcats have a storied history, and Baker-Mazara’s fiery demeanor during past matchups with Kentucky only fueled the rumors. Auburn fans cheered his statement, while Kentucky supporters fired back on social media, calling him “classless” and “overhyped.”
The backlash didn’t stop there. Sports analysts debated whether Baker-Mazara’s comments were strategic motivation or unnecessary bulletin-board material. ESPN’s Jay Bilas called it “bold but reckless,” while former Auburn players defended him, saying his confidence is what makes him an elite competitor.
Meanwhile, Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl attempted to downplay the drama, telling reporters, “Chad is a passionate player. He respects the game, and we’re focused on winning, not talking.” But insiders suggest Pearl may have had a private conversation with his star forward about keeping the focus on Auburn’s championship run.
Regardless of the fallout, one thing is certain: Baker-Mazara just added another layer of intensity to an already unpredictable NCAA Tournament. Whether his wish comes true or backfires spectacularly remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—he’s not afraid to speak his mind.
