
Auburn’s Chad Baker-Mazar was ejected during the team’s overtime loss to No. 7 Alabama after delivering a forceful forearm to the neck and head of Alabama’s Chris Youngblood. The incident occurred in a tense matchup, ultimately resulting in Baker-Mazara’s removal from the game.
Following the game, Alabama head coach Nate Oats expressed his frustration with Auburn’s style of play, calling out what he described as “cheap plays.” In response to Oats’ remarks, Baker-Mazara took to Instagram, posting “Rent free,” suggesting that Alabama was overly fixated on him.
This ejection is not Baker-Mazara’s first brush with controversy, as he has a history of aggressive on-court behavior. He was previously ejected for a flagrant foul during the NCAA Tournament, further fueling criticism of his playing style. Despite this, he remains a key contributor for Auburn, averaging 13.1 points, 2.6 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game this season.
ESPN analyst Dick Vitale supported the referees’ decision to eject Baker-Mazara, emphasizing that such actions have no place in basketball. He acknowledged the importance of playing with intensity but made it clear that excessive aggression crosses the line, stating, “No place in the game for that… Play the game hard… But no need for that at all.”
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