“War Rapport Wednesday: Baker Mazara Departs Auburn, Pearl Lands Top Recruit, and a Look at Auburn Football’s Future”
Auburn University’s athletic programs are undergoing significant transitions as the 2025 spring season unfolds. In men’s basketball, the departure of key players and the arrival of promising recruits signal a new era under Coach Bruce Pearl. Simultaneously, Auburn football is navigating the complexities of roster changes and recruiting dynamics, aiming to build a competitive team for the upcoming season.
🏀 Chad Baker-Mazara’s Departure and Its Implications
Chad Baker-Mazara, a pivotal figure in Auburn’s men’s basketball team, has entered the transfer portal, seeking opportunities to complete his final college basketball season elsewhere. Over his two-year tenure at Auburn, Baker-Mazara contributed significantly, especially during the 2024-25 season, where he averaged 12.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. His performance was instrumental in Auburn’s journey to the Final Four, culminating in a 32-6 record and a No. 1 national ranking for much of the season .
This departure, coupled with the graduation of other key players, including Johni Broome, Denver Jones, Dylan Cardwell, and Miles Kelly, means Auburn will lose its entire starting lineup from the 2024-25 season. However, Baker-Mazara’s eligibility remains intact due to a waiver for athletes who played outside the NCAA, such as his junior college stint at Northwest Florida State in 2022-23 .
🏀 Bruce Pearl’s Strategic Recruiting Efforts
In response to the roster changes, Coach Bruce Pearl is focusing on fortifying the team through strategic recruiting. Notably, four-star center Peyton Marshall has committed to Auburn, bringing size and presence to the frontcourt. Marshall, a 7-foot, 300-pound prospect from Marietta, Georgia, chose Auburn over offers from Missouri, Penn State, and others .
Additionally, four-star guard Kaden Magwood has joined the Tigers, adding depth and scoring ability to the backcourt. Magwood, ranked No. 44 nationally, is known for his scoring prowess and defensive capabilities .
These additions are expected to bolster Auburn’s lineup, providing a foundation for the upcoming season and aligning with Coach Pearl’s vision for the program’s future.
🏈 Auburn Football’s Recruitment and Roster Developments
On the football front, Auburn is experiencing a dynamic recruiting period. The Tigers have secured commitments from several high-profile recruits, including five-star edge rusher Jared Smith and quarterback Deuce Knight. Knight, a consensus five-star recruit, initially committed to Notre Dame but flipped to Auburn in December 2024 .
However, the program also faces challenges, with losses such as four-star cornerback Shamar Arnoux to Florida State and five-star defensive lineman Nathaniel Marshall to Michigan. Despite these setbacks, Auburn’s class remains strong, featuring top recruits like defensive lineman Malik Autry and quarterback Deuce Knight .
Auburn’s coaching staff, led by Coach Hugh Freeze, is working to integrate these new talents into the team, aiming to build a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
🔮 Looking Ahead: Auburn’s Athletic Trajectory
As Auburn navigates these transitions in both basketball and football, the focus remains on building sustainable success. In basketball, the infusion of new talent under Coach Pearl’s leadership aims to maintain the program’s competitive edge. In football, the strategic recruiting efforts are designed to strengthen the team and position Auburn for success in the SEC.
The coming months will be pivotal in shaping the future of Auburn athletics, with both programs striving to uphold the university’s tradition of excellence.
