Chad Baker-Mazara’s Late Mistake Haunts Auburn as National Title Bid Slips Away
By Cole Amundson
In the Final Four, Chad Baker-Mazara made one mistake that cost Auburn a national title. Auburn trailed Florida 79-73. Baker-Mazara is unpredictable and full of energy. His college basketball path is unusual. This fact stokes questions about his future as he thinks about a return to Auburn for another season.
Earlier this month, Bruce Pearl confirmed that Baker-Mazara might stay. Pearl is Auburn’s head coach. Baker-Mazara earns an extra year of eligibility because of changes in JUCO transfer rules. The game’s dramatic end casts a shadow on his play, even though he once lit up the scoreboard against Florida.
Baker-Mazara started with clear authority. In the first five minutes, he hit two three-pointers. Auburn built an early lead as his two shots put them ahead. By the first media timeout, he had eight points. That score was half of his team’s result. Not one to hide from the spotlight, he declared, “I’m born for this,” as Jeff Goodman of Field of 68 reported.
Soon after, Florida’s defense closed in. Baker-Mazara’s play grew erratic. He finished with 18 points and grabbed four steals. Yet a travel violation in the final moments hurt Auburn badly. This error erased a three-pointer that might have cut the gap. Auburn assistant coach Steven Pearl reviewed the replay and showed clear frustration. His reaction tied to many disputes in that high-stakes game.
This season offered many ups and downs. Baker-Mazara pushed Auburn to new heights, and the team posted a 59-14 record over two seasons. His journey to Auburn was eclectic. He played at Duquesne, then moved to San Diego State, and finally shone at Northwest Florida State community college. His path showed both resilience and growth. Coach Bruce Pearl stressed that he lets Baker-Mazara play freely, saying, “We let Chad Baker-Mazara be himself.” This trust grew between them.
Even though the 2024-25 campaign ended painfully, Baker-Mazara’s mark on the court was clear. His performance helped Auburn chase a national championship. As questions swirl about his future, his choice—to stay at Auburn or seek new chances—will shape the team for the next season.
Fans and analysts now wait for Baker-Mazara’s decision. One fact remains: his college career, with its dramatic highs and lows, will leave a lasting imprint on college basketball. The Chad Baker-Mazara offseason watch has officially begun.
