Chad Baker-Mazara: The Journey to Auburn’s Final Four Run

AUBURN, Ala. — As the excitement builds for the NCAA Final Four, Chad Baker-Mazara, a senior guard for Auburn University, stands out not only for his on-court skills but also for his remarkable journey through college basketball. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Baker-Mazara has played for four schools in five years, earning a reputation for his fun personality in the locker room.

In preparation for Saturday’s semifinal matchup against Florida, where both teams feature players with diverse backgrounds, Baker-Mazara reflects on his path to Auburn. “I’ve been everywhere — East Coast, West Coast, and now I’m in the South,” he said. This will be a critical game for Auburn, who, as a 2.5-point underdog against the Gators, aims to capitalize on their experience.

Baker-Mazara’s journey began at Duquesne University before transferring to San Diego State, then moving on to Northwestern Florida State College. Auburn recruited him from Northwest Florida State, and now in his second season with the Tigers, he finds himself in the national spotlight.

The narrative of transferring schools has become increasingly common in college athletics, especially with the advent of the transfer portal. Eight of the ten projected starters in Saturday’s game started their collegiate careers elsewhere. However, Baker-Mazara emphasizes the sense of belonging he feels at Auburn. “It’s weird how the East Coast people are way different from the people from the South and the West Coast,” he noted. “People down here in the South are really nice.”

While he cherishes his letterman’s jacket, a symbol of achievement at Auburn, it also represents a fresh start for Baker-Mazara following a tumultuous previous season, which saw him ejected during the first round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament. Auburn lost that match to Yale, a moment Baker-Mazara describes as carrying significant weight. The support from head coach Bruce Pearl has been pivotal in his journey. “He believes in me,” Baker-Mazara said. “He knows that I’m not really trying to go over the edge; I’m just a fiery person.”

The chemistry within the team has been a driving force behind their success, with players playing for each other regardless of their previous institutions. “People said NIL money and the transfer portal would kill school spirit, but I haven’t found that to be the case,” Baker-Mazara said, expressing confidence in their team’s unity.

As Auburn prepares to face Florida, limiting the Gators’ standout guard Walter Clayton Jr., will be crucial. In their previous encounter, Florida triumphed 90-81. “Finding a way to limit Clayton will be key,” Baker-Mazara observed, underscoring the stakes involved in this vital game.

Baker-Mazara’s age and experience can serve as an asset; at 25 years old, he has faced unique challenges throughout his career. His father, a basketball coach in the Dominican Republic, played a significant role in shaping his love for the game. The move to the U.S. came unexpectedly just before his junior year of high school, but it ultimately paved the way for his dreams.

As he looks to lead Auburn to the Final Four, Baker-Mazara’s journey stands testament to resilience and the power of a supportive community. With Coach Pearl by his side and his teammates backing him, he embraces the moment. “I feel like here at Auburn, they really let me be myself,” he said, indicating that authenticity has been key to his progress and acceptance. This Final Four appearance is not just another game; it’s the culmination of years of hard work and determination.

As the clock approaches tip-off, Baker-Mazara’s tumultuous journey is primed to reach new heights. This Saturday, he aims to be more than just a player; he seeks to embody the spirit of Auburn basketball.