“I’m Not Going Anywhere”: Chad Baker-Mazara Confirms His Return to Auburn for the 2025-26 Season

In a move that will have Auburn fans breathing a sigh of relief — and SEC coaches rethinking their defensive game plans — Chad Baker-Mazara has officially announced his return to Auburn for the 2025-26 college basketball season.

“I’m not going anywhere,” Baker-Mazara declared in a video posted across his social media platforms Thursday afternoon. The message was short, direct, and echoed across the college basketball world like a cannon blast. For a program that has seen its share of NBA departures and transfer portal drama, Baker-Mazara’s decision is a major stabilizing force heading into what could be a monumental season for the Tigers.

A Return That Feels Like a Win

With the transfer portal booming and top players increasingly opting for early NBA Draft entries, keeping a star like Baker-Mazara is more than just retention — it’s a win in itself. Head coach Bruce Pearl knows this, and so does the Auburn fanbase. The 6-foot-7 guard had previously fueled speculation about a potential move, whether to test the NBA Draft waters or explore lucrative NIL options elsewhere. But in the end, loyalty, development, and unfinished business won out.

“I believe in this team, I believe in Coach Pearl, and I believe the best is still ahead,” Baker-Mazara said in an interview with AuburnTigers.com. “I came here to leave a legacy, and I’m not done yet.”

What Baker-Mazara Brings Back to Auburn

Last season, Baker-Mazara was more than just a spark — he was a flamethrower. He averaged 16.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 47% from the field and nearly 40% from three-point range. He became the go-to scorer in clutch moments, the vocal leader on the court, and the player opposing coaches schemed against every week.

His versatility — able to defend multiple positions, score at all three levels, and create off the dribble — made him a matchup nightmare. At times, he played like a lottery pick. His decision to return likely makes Auburn an early SEC title contender and possibly a preseason top-10 team, depending on how the rest of the roster shakes out.

Even more valuable than his stats is his edge. Baker-Mazara plays with swagger, confidence, and a bit of a chip on his shoulder — traits that rub off on teammates and fuel big runs.

“You can’t teach that dog mentality,” Bruce Pearl said during last season’s SEC Tournament. “Chad’s got it. He elevates our whole program.”

A Fan Favorite From Day One

It didn’t take long for Chad Baker-Mazara to win over Auburn fans. From his debut game — a 21-point explosion against Saint Mary’s — to his game-winning shot against Alabama that sealed the Tigers’ spot atop the SEC standings, Baker-Mazara delivered one highlight after another.

His on-court heroics made headlines, but it was his off-court humility and community involvement that made him beloved on The Plains. He routinely visited local schools, took part in NIL initiatives that benefited youth basketball programs, and developed a strong bond with the Auburn student section, who chanted his name during key moments throughout the season.

When rumors started swirling about a potential departure this offseason, fans were understandably anxious. Some speculated that a six-figure NIL deal from another major program might lure him away. Others thought he might declare for the NBA Draft after an impressive junior season. But those worries were put to bed with just five words: “I’m not going anywhere.”

Why He’s Staying

In today’s college basketball landscape, star players returning for senior seasons are increasingly rare. So why is Baker-Mazara coming back?

There are several factors:

1. NBA Draft Readiness:
While Baker-Mazara received interest from NBA scouts, feedback reportedly suggested he could benefit from one more year to refine his decision-making and strength. Another season under Bruce Pearl’s system gives him the chance to improve his draft stock and aim for a first-round selection in 2026.

2. NIL Stability at Auburn:
Thanks to a strong NIL infrastructure, Auburn can compete financially with other major programs. Baker-Mazara is believed to have secured a multi-six-figure deal to remain at the university, complete with brand endorsements, local partnerships, and national opportunities.

3. Trust in Bruce Pearl:
Baker-Mazara has developed a close relationship with Coach Pearl, who’s known for turning wings and guards into NBA-ready prospects. The trust between player and coach clearly factored into this decision.

4. A Shot at a National Title:
Auburn has built one of its most talented rosters in years. With Baker-Mazara leading the way, and key returners and incoming transfers contributing, the Tigers are poised to make a deep March Madness run. “We’re not just trying to win the SEC,” he said. “We’re trying to win it all.”

Auburn’s 2025-26 Outlook Just Skyrocketed

Before Baker-Mazara’s announcement, Auburn was seen as a top-25 program with question marks. Now, the expectations shift dramatically. His return gives the Tigers an elite veteran scorer and a leader who’s battle-tested in high-pressure games.

In addition to Baker-Mazara, Auburn returns key pieces like center Johni Broome (should he withdraw from the NBA Draft), wing Denver Jones, and freshman breakout guard Aden Holloway. There’s also excitement about incoming five-star recruit Khalil London, who has drawn comparisons to a young Jayson Tatum with his 6-foot-8 frame and skill set.

With a blend of veteran leadership, young talent, and depth, Auburn could now challenge Kentucky, Tennessee, and Alabama for SEC supremacy.

Projected 2025-26 Starting Lineup (if Johni Broome returns):

• PG: Aden Holloway
• SG: Chad Baker-Mazara
• SF: Denver Jones
• PF: Khalil London
• C: Johni Broome

Bench depth includes sharpshooters, defenders, and role players who will benefit from Baker-Mazara drawing double teams and collapsing defenses.

Reactions from Around the Country

The reaction to Baker-Mazara’s announcement was swift.

Jay Bilas, ESPN Analyst:
“Chad Baker-Mazara returning to Auburn is huge for college basketball. This is a guy who can score, defend, and lead. Love to see players betting on themselves and their programs.”

Paul Finebaum, SEC Network:
“This changes everything for the SEC. Auburn’s going to be a serious problem. Bruce Pearl just got the best offseason news he could’ve hoped for.”

Johni Broome, teammate (via X):
“RUN IT BACK 🐅🔥 Let’s finish what we started.”

Auburn Basketball official account:
“Unfinished business. Let’s work, @cbm11 💪”

A Player Who Represents the New Era of College Hoops

Baker-Mazara’s return is also a case study in how NIL and modern college basketball can work hand-in-hand. Players no longer have to rush to the pros to support themselves or chase dreams prematurely. With the right support system and vision, staying in college can be the best career move.

He’s also setting an example for others. Amid a wave of portal entries, his loyalty to Auburn stands out.

“Everybody’s chasing something,” he said in his video message. “Some are chasing money. Some are chasing the spotlight. I’m chasing greatness — and that’s right here in Auburn.”

Legacy on the Line

With one more season to cement his place in Auburn history, the pressure and spotlight will only grow. But Baker-Mazara has never shied away from the big stage.

He’s already etched his name in Tiger lore, but another year could elevate him to legendary status. If Auburn makes a Final Four run or contends for a national championship with him as the centerpiece, he’ll be remembered alongside Auburn greats like Charles Barkley, Chris Porter, and Jabari Smith Jr.

He’s also within striking distance of several program milestones. If he averages 18+ points next season, he could finish among the top five scorers in Auburn history. With another season of elite production, he could also join the short list of players in program history with over 1,500 points and 500 rebounds.

The Bottom Line

In a world of instability and short-term decisions, Chad Baker-Mazara’s return to Auburn is a story of belief — belief in the process, in the people, and in the place that gave him a platform.

It’s not just about what Auburn can do for him. It’s about what he still wants to do for Auburn.

So when he said, “I’m not going anywhere,” it wasn’t just a declaration. It was a promise.

A promise to lead.

A promise to win.

A promise to finish what he started.

And for Auburn basketball, that promise might just lead to something unforgettable.