Friars Eyeing Auburn Guard Chad Baker-Mazara Amidst Transfer Portal Activity
Providence College is reportedly showing significant interest in Chad Baker-Mazara, a talented guard who recently entered the NCAA transfer portal after a noteworthy season with the Auburn Tigers. This development comes at a crucial time for the Friars, who are looking to reshape their roster under head coach Kim English following a somewhat underwhelming 2024-25 campaign and the departure of key players. Baker-Mazara, a 6-foot-7 senior, brings a wealth of experience and a proven scoring ability that could significantly bolster Providence’s backcourt.
Baker-Mazara’s decision to enter the transfer portal followed a successful season at Auburn, where he averaged a career-high 12.3 points per game, along with 3.0 rebounds and 2.7 assists. His contributions were particularly evident during Auburn’s run in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, where he showcased his scoring prowess, including a standout 17-point performance in a Round of 32 victory against Creighton. This level of performance on a big stage undoubtedly makes him an attractive prospect for programs looking to add immediate impact and veteran leadership.
The interest from Providence was first reported by Jeff Goodman of The Field of 68, who listed the Friars among a group of schools that have already reached out to Baker-Mazara. Other programs reportedly in the mix include Arkansas, Kentucky, and Ole Miss, highlighting the high demand for a player of his caliber. For Providence, the potential addition of Baker-Mazara would be particularly significant given the recent news of junior guard Jayden Pierre’s transfer commitment to TCU. Pierre was a key contributor for the Friars in the 2024-25 season, averaging 12.3 points and playing significant minutes, making his departure a considerable loss in the team’s backcourt.
The Friars have been active in the transfer portal, already securing a commitment from former Georgia Tech forward Duncan Powell. Powell, a 6-8 junior, averaged 12.2 points and 5.4 rebounds this past season, demonstrating his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. The potential pairing of Powell with a dynamic playmaker like Baker-Mazara could provide a substantial boost to Providence’s roster heading into the 2025-26 season.
Chad Baker-Mazara’s journey in college basketball has been one of steady growth and increasing impact. Prior to his time at Auburn, Baker-Mazara spent a season at Northwest Florida State College, a JUCO program, where he honed his skills and demonstrated his potential. His transition to Auburn showcased his ability to compete at the high-major level, and his senior season solidified his reputation as a versatile and impactful guard. Standing at 6-foot-7, Baker-Mazara possesses good size for a guard, allowing him to see over smaller defenders and contribute on the boards. His scoring ability comes from a variety of ways, including driving to the basket, shooting from beyond the arc, and utilizing his mid-range game. His assist numbers also indicate a willingness to create for his teammates, making him a multifaceted offensive threat.
For Providence, the acquisition of Baker-Mazara would address a critical need for experienced scoring and playmaking in the backcourt following Pierre’s departure. Coach English is looking to build a roster that can compete in the challenging Big East Conference, and adding a player with Baker-Mazara’s track record would be a significant step in that direction. The Friars are also welcoming several other transfers, including guards Jaylin Sellers (UCF) and Jason Edwards (Vanderbilt), as well as forward Cole Hargrove (Drexel), indicating a clear focus on revamping the roster through the portal. The addition of Duncan Powell already provides much-needed size and scoring in the frontcourt.
The NCAA transfer portal has become an increasingly vital tool for college basketball programs to quickly address roster needs and add experienced talent. With the portal closing on April 22nd, the timeline for Baker-Mazara’s decision is relatively short. The interest from multiple high-profile programs suggests that he will have several attractive options to consider. Providence’s active pursuit highlights their urgency to secure a player of his caliber and the belief that he could be a key piece in their future success.
The basketball landscape is ever-evolving, and the transfer portal has become a central element of roster construction. Players are afforded more flexibility than ever before, and programs must navigate this landscape effectively to maintain competitiveness. Kim English and the Providence staff appear to be embracing this new reality, actively engaging in the portal to identify and recruit players who fit their system and can contribute immediately. The potential addition of Chad Baker-Mazara would be a significant victory for the Friars, providing them with a seasoned scorer and playmaker who has proven himself at a high level, including a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. As the transfer portal window nears its close, the coming days will be crucial in determining where Baker-Mazara will take his talents next, and Providence hopes to be the beneficiary of his decision. His addition, alongside the other transfers secured, could signal a significant shift in the Friars’ fortunes as they look towards the 2025-26 season. The blend of Baker-Mazara’s scoring ability and experience with the potential of the other incoming transfers could create an intriguing and competitive Providence team.
