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As the NBA Draft looms, Rutgers forward Ace Bailey has stirred the offseason waters by surprising many – especially the Philadelphia 76ers – by canceling his scheduled workout with the team holding the No. 3 pick.
His unexpected move reflects larger discussions surrounding his draft stock and preferred landing spot.
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At 6-foot-8, Bailey averaged 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists during his freshman season, shooting 46 percent from the field. Seen by many as a top-three prospect, he was invited to the NBA Draft Combine – yet he has yet to complete a single team workout.
Sources told ESPN that Bailey remains “the only US-based prospect who has declined to visit any team” – a bold approach that has left franchises puzzled but also prompted guesses that he may already have a draft-day promise.
Philadelphia reaction to Bailey refusal
Insiders suggest Bailey’s camp is sending a clear message: he expects to be taken in the lottery and wants assurance of meaningful playing time. An NBA insider shared, “Ace Bailey’s camp is adamant […] and they’re looking to a clear pathway to stardom,” underscoring their bid to influence front-office decisions.
Bailey’s cancellation of the Philly private workout caught many off-guard. DraftExpress’ Jonathan Givony noted: “He was supposed to be in Philadelphia… everything arranged … and he essentially bailed.”
The blowback has been especially sharp from those who believe draft workouts are essential for building trust and securing long-term roles. Former Sixers forward Marcus Morris echoed that sentiment and reinforced concerns that ignoring workouts could hurt Bailey’s relationships around the league.
“If I’m Ace Bailey, I’m working out. I’m like ‘I’m a basketball player… You’ve gotta think about the long term game.'”
The question now is whether his bold pre-draft strategy pays off. If a team confirms a promise, he could land in an ideal environment. If not, teams may opt for safer, more cooperative prospects.
“This decision might rub some decision-makers the wrong way,” one scout told Sports Illustrated – even as they admit “he’s a tantalizing talent”.
Where Bailey might land
Philadelphia is reportedly open to taking Bailey at No. 3 despite the snub – though it may now be leaning toward other options like Baylor’s V.J. Edgecombe or Rutgers guard Dylan Harper. The 76ers are reportedly exploring ways to trade up or down, approached the Spurs about moving to No. 2, and have already worked out Edgecombe.
At No. 5, the Utah Jazz also remain a possibility. Reports suggest they’re evaluating multiple prospects, including Bailey and Texas guard Tre Johnson, as they balance roster needs with long-term goals. Some project Bailey slipping to No. 6 or lower as teams weigh character and fit.
Should he fall to No. 8, the Brooklyn Nets could intervene, with rumors swirling that Bailey prefers an East Coast destination offering a clearer path to early playing time-particularly with the Nets developing a deep rebuild and seeking to attract young talent.
Bailey’s physical tools – shot-making, length, defensive potential – are widely praised. But scouts have flagged areas for improvement: maturity, decision-making, and playmaking. He averaged more turnovers than assists, and was measured at 6-foot-7.5 despite being listed at 6-foot-10. Still, his upside remains tempting for teams prioritizing long-term reward.
Ace Bailey’s pre-draft maneuvering adds a dramatic layer to an already intense selection process. His refusal to engage could either clarify his value or dilute it – depending on how teams interpret the signals. While his camp’s confidence is high, the draft lottery and team philosophies may have the final say on where this talented forward begins his NBA journey.
This news was originally published on this post .
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