Bruce Pearl Confirms Chad Baker-Mazara Has Another Year of Eligibility, Could Return Next Season
In a key update for Auburn basketball fans, head coach Bruce Pearl confirmed today that Chad Baker-Mazara, a versatile guard/forward for the Tigers, has another year of eligibility and could return to the program for the upcoming season. This announcement comes as a relief for Auburn, as Baker-Mazara has been an important part of the team’s lineup, and his return could significantly boost the Tigers’ chances in the SEC and beyond.
Baker-Mazara, who transferred to Auburn from San Diego State, has made an immediate impact since joining the Tigers. His size, athleticism, and shooting ability have made him a valuable contributor on both ends of the floor. Despite suffering from some injury issues in his time at Auburn, Baker-Mazara has shown flashes of brilliance, displaying the kind of skills that can elevate the team when healthy.
The news of his extra year of eligibility comes as part of the NCAA’s decision to grant players additional seasons due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The rule allows athletes who had their seasons shortened or disrupted due to the pandemic to have an extra year of eligibility to use at any point in their college careers. For Baker-Mazara, this means he has the option to return for another season, potentially adding depth and experience to a team that will be aiming for another deep run in the NCAA tournament.
Pearl’s confirmation that Baker-Mazara could be back next season has significant implications for the program. While Auburn has had its fair share of departures over recent years, retaining a player of Baker-Mazara’s caliber provides continuity and stability. His versatility gives Pearl flexibility in how he constructs his lineup, especially if the Tigers lose other key players to the draft or graduation. The ability to bring back a player with the experience and talent of Baker-Mazara could be a game-changer, both in terms of leadership and production on the court.
Baker-Mazara has shown a strong scoring ability, particularly from beyond the arc, and his length allows him to be a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down three-pointers would continue to be valuable to an Auburn team that thrives on spacing and pace. In addition to his scoring, he’s also a strong rebounder for his position, giving the Tigers an extra presence in the paint.
While Baker-Mazara’s return is not yet fully finalized, with decisions about the future of players often subject to several factors such as personal choices and professional opportunities, his potential return is a positive development for the program. Auburn has already been building a reputation for success under Bruce Pearl, and with the core of talent they are assembling, the Tigers could continue to be a powerhouse in the SEC.
In the coming months, Auburn fans will be eagerly awaiting more information on whether Baker-Mazara will indeed return for another year. However, the confirmation that he has the option to do so is encouraging news for a team that has aspirations of continuing its growth as a top contender in college basketball.
For Auburn, keeping players like Baker-Mazara in the fold only strengthens their chances of success, making his decision one to watch as the Tigers prepare for another exciting season of basketball.