After Auburn's exit from the NCAA Tournament, Kentucky has reportedly set its sights on a familiar name: Chad Baker-Mazara. The versatile forward, who entered the transfer portal earlier this offseason, has drawn interest, per reports from KentuckyHoopsSig.
A Look at Baker-Mazara’s Journey
Baker-Mazara’s college career has taken him across multiple programs, starting with Duquesne before he transferred to San Diego State and later to Auburn. His journey is filled with controversy with some fans questioning the way he plays.
His time at Auburn was marked by consistency. Last season he averaged 12.3 points, 3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game while shooting 44.8% from the field and 38.1% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting while also contributing as a playmaker made him a player crucial to the way Auburn wanted to play.
Stats vs. Kentucky
In a matchup against Kentucky, Baker-Mazara delivered a strong performance, finishing with 22 points on 6-of-12 shooting from the field and 1-of-3 from deep. He also went 9-of-10 from the free-throw line, adding 6 rebounds and a steal in 29 minutes of play. Fans got a good look at the potential new player afterwards too when he joined in with the belt celebration after beating Kentucky in Rupp. Do you take the good with the bad?
What Baker-Mazara would bring to the Cats
At 6'7", Baker-Mazara’s versatility is a key asset. His experience in high-level games is always important and being a two way player is something Pope has deemed vital this off-season. If Otega Oweh does decided to stay in the draft, he would be a great replacement option.
The huge thing is he will turn 26 during his final season. A 26 year old playing college basketball, at a high level no less, is part of what the world will look like going forward. With the NCAA being challenged successfully by players Diego Pavia, things are changing. How that will affect the play on the court, well, that remains to be seen. But if you're Kentucky, may as well take advantage of it.