The Dilemma Behind the Sudden Draft Slide of This Rutgers Basketball Star
Airious “Ace” Bailey, the electrifying freshman forward from Rutgers, entered the 2025 NBA Draft process as one of the most hyped prospects of the past decade. Projected by many as a top-three pick, Bailey’s rare blend of length, athleticism, and scoring prowess made him a near-lock for the top of the draft; however, in the final days before draft night, a curious and controversial draft strategy is raising eyebrows, and may now lead to a surprising slide down the board. Multiple reports have confirmed that Bailey hasn’t participated in a single pre-draft workout with any NBA franchise. Most notably and recently, he canceled a private workout and dinner with the GM and head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, who happen to hold the third overall pick. The meeting had previously been arranged and agreed upon by both parties including travel accommodations, but was abruptly called off just days before the scheduled meeting. Sources close to the situation suggest Bailey’s agent, who happens to be former Auburn guard Sharife Coopers’ father, is seeking clarity or a draft promise from potential suitors before engaging in any private evaluations. However, no formal demand for a pledge has been made to the Sixers or any other team. It has been speculated that Bailey is choosing not to work for specific teams on purpose with the hopes of getting selected or traded to Brooklyn or Washington, who happen to have more guaranteed money in their rookie contracts than some of the other teams in the top five. This strategy could work in Bailey’s favor; however, this could also come back and hurt him. If certain teams aren’t willing to take the risk of selecting Bailey then we could see a true slide.
What Does This Mean for Bailey?
This approach, while not unprecedented, is extremely rare—especially for a player projected in the top three of the entire draft. The refusal to work out or meet with teams has reportedly made some front offices uneasy, with concerns ranging from basketball maturity to decision-making off the court. While denying workouts is uncommon for draft prospects, it’s not completely unheard of. Notable players to forgo their pre-draft workout and still get selected in the top three of the NBA Draft include a small list of: Ben Simmons, Kyrie Irving, and Shaquille O’Neal. While Irving sat out due to injury, Simmons and O’Neal sat out due to them both being locked to be the first overall selection.
So Where Does Bailey Get Selected?
First and foremost, the talent Bailey possesses is undeniable. Flashing elite potential as a two-way wing during his lone season at Rutgers, he showed off his explosive scoring ability and high IQ. Meanwhile, scouts have continued to praise his upside as one of the few prospects in the draft with true star potential. With the 2025 NBA Draft set for June 25th, the saga of Ace Bailey will be one of the most closely watched storylines of the night. As a result of his gamble, several league executives now believe Bailey could potentially fall outside the top five picks, a significant drop from his previously projected second or third slot. Teams like the Utah Jazz, New Orleans Pelicans, and Brooklyn Nets who all hold picks inside the top ten are closely monitoring the situation. Some insiders speculate that one of these teams could potentially attempt to trade up on draft night if Bailey begins to slide; furthermore, if he slips several spots it could cost him millions in guaranteed salary and raise more questions about the strategy behind his draft process. One thing is clear: the draft journey for Ace Bailey has been anything but conventional.
