The University of Southern California (USC) stated that race was not a factor in Chad Baker-Mazara’s dismissal from the men’s basketball team. This statement follows a lawsuit filed by Baker-Mazara, who suggested that his ethnicity influenced the university's decision to remove him from the roster. A university spokesperson emphasized that Baker-Mazara was dismissed based on various considerations unrelated to race.
In the lawsuit filed in Los Angeles, Baker-Mazara alleged that USC coach Eric Musselman used racist language during a postgame incident prior to his dismissal. He claimed that after a loss to Nebraska on February 28, Musselman told him, "Go back to the f—king Dominican Republic! Nobody wants you here!! F—k you!" Baker-Mazara's lawsuit argues that such remarks are understood as racist and discriminatory, particularly towards individuals of Dominican descent.
Baker-Mazara contended that Musselman’s comments were a direct attack on his national origin and heritage, made in front of his teammates. He also claimed that he was never informed of the reasons for his dismissal and accused USC of terminating his position to avoid paying him promised Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation.
The lawsuit includes claims of breach of contract, conversion, and intentional interference with prospective economic advantage. Baker-Mazara expressed his commitment to USC and stated that he felt compelled to file the lawsuit to uphold his rights. He indicated that he is focused on his professional basketball career after not being selected in the 2026 NBA Draft.
USC responded by stating that it looks forward to contesting Baker-Mazara’s claims in court. However, the university did not clarify whether it denies the specific allegations made regarding Musselman’s comments.