Chad Baker-Mazara is no longer a member of the USC men’s basketball program, the school confirmed Sunday, according to The Associated Press.
The 26-year-old forward, who leads USC in scoring this season, left Saturday’s home loss to No. 12 Nebraska early in the second half after taking a hard fall while blocking a shot.
Baker-Mazara later sat next to injured guard Rodney Rice instead of on the bench with the team.
USC did not provide details about his departure. Team spokesperson Kristen Keller told The Associated Press in a text message: “We have nothing additional to add at this time.”
After the game, head coach Eric Musselman spoke about Baker Mazara’s status.
“He said he couldn’t go,” Musselman said, adding that he had not spoken to a trainer about the player’s health.
When asked why Baker Mazara was sitting next to the fans, Musselman said it was due to a shortage of bench seats.
Baker Mazara transferred to USC last spring after stops at Duquesne, San Diego State, Northwest Florida State and Auburn.
He averaged 18.5 points in 26 games this season after Rodney Rice suffered a season-ending shoulder injury.
USC has now lost five straight games and is 18-11 overall with its NCAA tournament hopes uncertain.
