Bruce Pearl and the Auburn Tigers have made the NCAA Tournament four of the last seven seasons, but the fans are looking for more. Incredibly talented teams led by players like Jabari Smith, third overall selection for the Rockets in the 2022 draft, Walker Kessler, currently a star for the Jazz, and many others have been unable to make it past the second round in recent seasons.
Auburn lost every game starters Wendell Green and Zep Jasper, but Pearl was able to reload in the portal. Here are three guys who I think give Auburn one of the most underrated and talented transfer classes in the nation.
Denver Jones 6-4 Junior
Playing guard and being able to finish at the rim like Denver Jones should not be allowed. In his time at Florida International, the new Tiger was outstanding averaging 12.5 ppg in just seven games started his freshman season, before exploding for 20 per game while starting every game in 2022. Jones has a deep offensive bag, using a variety of options to get his buckets.
I think Jones’ best weapon may be his step back jump shot. His incredible length and quickness allow him to create great separation on that shot. However, he is also tough at the rim, able to finish through contact with crafty lays and ferocious slams. Jones shot 34.5% from three and 89.5% from the line and will be a huge addition for the Tigers.
Chaney Johnson 6-7 Junior
Transferring in from Division II Alabama Huntsville brought no attention to junior guard Chaney Johnson. However, I cannot wait to watch this guy play. Johnson averaged 15.9 and 6.6 rebounds for the Chargers, earning himself the 2023 Gulf South Conference Player of the Year. Many will discredit that due to the competition, however when they see him play, I know he will open some eyes.
Johnson is a threat to slam at any time. The incredibly lengthy guard can jump with the best, and he threw down some incredible dunks last season for UAH. Expect lobs from half court being hammered through by Johnson this season for Auburn.
Chad Baker-Mazara 6-7 Junior
The final member of a stacked class for Bruce Pearl and Auburn, Baker-Mazara is another guard coming to the Tigers with incredible length and scoring ability. Chad shot 46.9% from deep last season, leading Northwest Florida State College with 15.2 points per game.
Baker-Mazara is a three-time transfer after his decision to come to Auburn. After starting his career at Duquesne, Baker-Mazara was the sixth man of the year at San Diego State. In a first round of the NCAA tournament matchup with Creighton, Baker-Mazara exploded for a team leading 17 points. He will provide steady play on both sides of the ball for the Tigers.
