Top scorer Chad Baker-Mazara dismissed by USC basketball team - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Ryan Kartje

March 1, 2026

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USC's leading scorer Chad Baker-Mazara has been dismissed from the men’s basketball program amid a challenging season for the Trojans. The sixth-year guard, who had been the team's top scorer this season, left the program due to an accumulation of issues that included inconsistent performance and unexplained absences during conference play. His departure comes at a critical time, as USC is already struggling with a five-game losing streak and faces a daunting stretch of games ahead. Baker-Mazara, known for his dynamic scoring ability and leadership, had been a key player for the Trojans since joining the team in 2019. Earlier this season, he averaged an impressive 26 points per game during non-conference play, showcasing his potential to be USC's best scorer ever. However, his reliability waned as the Big Ten season progressed. He missed five games with unclear reasons and played fewer than 20 minutes in five others. His exit came shortly after leaving a loss to Nebraska mid-game due to an unspecified injury. Coach Eric Musselman had previously praised Baker-Mazara for his scoring prowess and "it factor," which made him a valuable asset to the team. However, his inconsistent performance and unexplained absences ultimately led to his dismissal, leaving USC without its top scorer as it approaches a crucial stretch of games in its conference schedule. The loss of Baker-Mazara is a significant blow for USC's chances in the NCAA tournament. The Trojans are already on shaky ground, with their season in danger of unraveling. Without their leading scorer and most reliable three-point shooter, they face an even tougher uphill battle to secure a spot in the tournament. This development highlights the challenges of maintaining consistency in a high-pressure sports environment. Baker-Mazara's story serves as a reminder of how quickly things can change for athletes, even those who have shown great promise. For USC fans, his departure adds another layer of uncertainty to an already difficult season.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 3/1/2026