USC Trojans Basketball Transfer Bound for Breakout Season in Big Ten

The USC Trojans men's basketball team is preparing to open the season under head coach Eric Musselman in his second year, with high expectations surrounding the program.

A key addition to the roster is Chad Baker-Mazara, a transfer from Auburn, who is anticipated to be one of the Big Ten's most impactful newcomers according to college basketball analyst Andy Katz. Baker-Mazara brings experience from a Final Four run with Auburn, where he recorded 468 points, 102 assists, 46 steals, and 23 blocks in his final season, playing alongside notable teammates like Johni Broome.

Before his time at Auburn, Baker-Mazara spent one season with San Diego State Aztecs in 2021-22 and began his collegiate career with Duquesne Dukes in 2020-21. He is ranked No. 6 among standout Big Ten newcomers, positioned between Illinois transfers Andrej Stojakovic and Zvonimir Ivisic.

Baker-Mazara is part of USC's No. 7 ranked transfer class by 247Sports, which includes other players like Jacob Cofie, Rodney Rice, and Ezra Ausar. Coach Musselman emphasized Baker-Mazara's versatility, describing him as a "Swiss army knife" who excels in defense, shooting, and playing with heart, making him valuable in crucial moments.

In Musselman's first season, USC finished with a 16-17 overall record and 7-13 in Big Ten play, achieving notable wins over ranked teams such as Michigan State and Illinois. The team has already begun preseason competition, securing an exhibition victory over LMU Lions with a 60-51 score, showcasing a revamped starting lineup featuring four new players.