As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, Rutgers standout Ace Bailey is unquestionably making waves in the basketball community. Recently, Bailey made headlines by abruptly canceling his scheduled workout with the Philadelphia 76ers, who hold the coveted No. 3 pick in the draft. This decision has left observers buzzing, as Bailey is now the only U.S. prospect who hasn’t participated in a workout with any NBA team, despite receiving multiple invitations from franchises within his projected draft range.
Bailey is projected to be a lottery pick, with many experts seeing him as a strong candidate for a top-three selection. There’s speculation that, even with this unexpected development, the Sixers are keeping the door open for Bailey at the No. 3 spot. It’s an intriguing dynamic, especially when considering that teams like the Washington Wizards at No. 6, the New Orleans Pelicans at No. 7, and the Brooklyn Nets at No. 8 are all expected to pursue Bailey aggressively as the draft approaches. Even the Utah Jazz, who are scheduled to pick at No. 5, could be a player in this mix.
Adding another layer to the discussion, the Charlotte Hornets hold the fourth pick but have struggled to engage prospects due to a general wariness surrounding the prospect of playing alongside LaMelo Ball. It’s a unique situation that could create opportunities for other teams looking to move up.
What stands out is that Bailey’s camp is sending clear signals about their expectations—citing their belief that he ranks among the top three players in the draft while also expressing the desire for a “clear pathway to stardom.” This sentiment speaks volumes about the ambitions of both the player and his representation as they navigate the complex landscape of the NBA Draft.
Interestingly, there’s chatter surrounding Bailey’s decision-making, with some theorists proposing that he might have already received enticing assurances from a team he feels confident about joining. Reports indicate he may have been seeking a commitment from the Sixers before his canceled workout, adding a layer of mystery to the situation.
In the draft hierarchy, Bailey’s Rutgers teammate Ron Harper is a consensus No. 2 pick, while Duke’s Cooper Flagg appears to be firmly positioned at No. 1. Bailey also solidified his status as a top prospect during the NBA Draft Combine, showcasing his talent with averages of 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, while shooting an impressive 46 percent from the field and 34.6 percent from beyond the arc over the past season.
As the draft night approaches, one thing is for certain: Ace Bailey has everyone’s attention—not just for his skill on the court, but for the strategic moves he’s making off it. It’s a captivating scenario that keeps fans and analysts alike on the edge of their seats as we await the next chapter in his basketball career.
