In a major shakeup in college basketball, Chad Baker-Mazara, one of the key contributors to Auburn’s Final Four run in the 2024–25 season, has officially transferred to the University of Southern California (USC). The 6-foot-7 guard/forward brings scoring power, experience, and defensive versatility to a USC team that’s rebuilding under new head coach Eric Musselman.
Baker-Mazara averaged 12.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game last season with Auburn. He delivered standout performances throughout the Tigers’ NCAA Tournament campaign, including an 18-point showing in the national semifinal loss to eventual champions Florida.
The Dominican-born athlete is making use of a temporary NCAA waiver that grants an extra year of eligibility for players who spent time in junior college or outside the NCAA. His journey has included stints at Duquesne, San Diego State, and Northwest Florida State before his time at Auburn.
His move comes at a pivotal time for Auburn, which is losing its entire starting lineup from the previous season. Meanwhile, USC is aiming to climb the ranks in the Big Ten Conference, and the addition of Baker-Mazara could significantly boost their hopes for a deep postseason run.
Baker-Mazara announced the transfer via social media, expressing his excitement to begin a new chapter in Los Angeles. His transfer is one of the most impactful moves of the offseason and could reshape both programs’ trajectories going into
2025–26.
