SPORTS
NBA Draft Drama: Ace Bailey's Bold Move
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USAThu Jun 19 2025
Ace Bailey, the standout player from Rutgers, is making waves in the NBA Draft scene. He recently pulled out of a scheduled workout with the Philadelphia 76ers, who are set to pick third overall. This unexpected move has sparked a lot of talk and speculation.
Bailey is the only top prospect in the U. S. who hasn't worked out with any team yet. He's turned down invites from several teams that are interested in him. Experts think he could be a top-three pick, maybe even the third overall choice. The 76ers haven't ruled out picking him, even after this surprising decision.
So, why is Bailey playing hard to get? Some think he's holding out for a clear path to stardom. His team has hinted that they believe he's a top-three player and want him to have a shot at the big time. They've also mentioned that he might be comfortable going to a different team later in the draft or through a trade.
The 76ers have already worked out VJ Edgecombe, who is seen as the fourth-best prospect. Other teams like the Wizards, Pelicans, and Nets are also eyeing Bailey and might try to move up in the draft to get him. The Jazz, picking fifth, could also be in the mix. The Hornets, picking fourth, have had trouble getting prospects to work out for them because players don't want to join LaMelo Ball.
Bailey's teammate, Ron Harper, is expected to go second to the Spurs. Duke's Cooper Flagg is locked in as the number one pick. Bailey had a strong season at Rutgers, averaging 17. 6 points, 7. 2 rebounds, and 1. 3 assists per game. He shot 46% from the field and 34. 6% from three-point range.
Some people think Bailey might have already secured a promise from a team he likes. Others suggest he's playing a strategic game to get the best deal possible. Either way, his move has definitely turned heads and added some drama to the NBA Draft.
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questions
What strategies could other teams, such as the Wizards, Pelicans, and Nets, employ to secure Bailey's services?
Is Ace Bailey playing a real-life game of 'NBA Draft: The Card Game' where he's holding out for the best hand?
How might Bailey's decision to cancel the workout with the 76ers affect his draft stock?
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