In a surprising turn of events, Auburn Tigers forward Chad Baker-Mazara has decided to return for the 2025–26 season, declaring, “I’m not going anywhere.” This announcement comes after he previously entered the NCAA transfer portal, signaling a potential departure from Auburn. His return is a significant boost for the Tigers, who are looking to build upon their recent successes.
A Pivotal Player’s Journey
Baker-Mazara’s basketball journey has been marked by perseverance and adaptability. Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, he moved to the United States to pursue his basketball aspirations. After stints at Duquesne, San Diego State, and Northwest Florida State College, he joined Auburn in 2023. During the 2024–25 season, he averaged 12.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, playing a crucial role in Auburn’s run to the Final Four
The Transfer Portal Decision
In April 2025, Baker-Mazara entered the transfer portal, a move that surprised many fans and analysts. Reports suggested that his decision was influenced by NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) considerations, particularly after learning that incoming transfer Keyshawn Hall was set to receive a more lucrative NIL package . Additionally, there were indications that Baker-Mazara’s existing NIL agreement included a clause requiring him to repay a significant portion if he transferred, adding complexity to his decision The Return Announcement
Despite entering the transfer portal, Baker-Mazara hinted at a possible return to Auburn with a cryptic social media post: “2025/26 War Eagle?” accompanied by the eyes emoji . This fueled speculation about his intentions. Ultimately, his declaration to stay with the Tigers was met with enthusiasm from the Auburn community, signaling his commitment to the program and its future
Baker-Mazara’s return is a significant development for Auburn. With the departure of several key players, including Johni Broome and Denver Jones, his experience and leadership will be invaluable. His decision also reflects the program’s ability to retain top talent amidst the evolving landscape of college basketball, where NIL deals and transfer opportunities are increasingly influential. (
As the Tigers prepare for the upcoming season, Baker-Mazara’s presence will be central to their strategy. His versatility on the court and experience in high-pressure situations position him as a cornerstone for Auburn’s aspirations. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his return influences the team’s performance in the highly competitive SEC.
