USC’s men’s basketball program is moving forward without one of its most experienced players.

According to multiple sources, Chad Baker-Mazara is no longer a member of the USC Trojans men’s basketball program, effectively ending his college basketball career with just two games remaining in the regular season.

Sources indicate Baker-Mazara had recently become increasingly disrespectful and aggressive toward members of the coaching staff. There were also concerns about his behavior toward teammates, with reports stating he was intentionally attempting to provoke confrontations with both players and staff during team activities.

The situation appeared to reach a breaking point this week.

During USC’s game against Nebraska Cornhuskers men’s basketball, Baker-Mazara briefly left the floor after appearing to suffer an injury. When he returned, he did not rejoin the team on the main bench, instead sitting courtside away from coaches and teammates for the remainder of the game—an unusual sight that raised questions at the time.

Now those questions have been answered.

At 26 years old, Baker-Mazara’s exit from USC closes the chapter on one of the more turbulent college careers in recent memory. His journey spanned multiple programs and levels of college basketball:

• 2020–21: Duquesne

• 2021–22: San Diego State (dismissed from the program)

• 2022–23: Junior college

• 2023–25: Auburn Tigers men’s basketball

• 2025–26: USC (dismissed from the program)

Despite his talent and experience, Baker-Mazara’s career was repeatedly derailed by off-court issues and conflicts within programs. USC had hoped his veteran presence would help stabilize a roster navigating a challenging season, but the situation ultimately proved untenable.

With only two games left on the schedule, USC will now finish the regular season without Baker-Mazara as it looks to regroup and close the year on a positive note.

For Baker-Mazara, the dismissal brings an abrupt end to a college basketball career defined as much by instability as ability—a reminder that longevity at this level requires more than talent alone.