Philadelphia 76ers fans and NBA draft experts are buzzing after top prospect Ace Bailey reportedly canceled a crucial pre-draft visit and workout with the team holding the No. 3 overall pick. The move adds another layer of mystery to an already unconventional pre-draft process for the talented forward out of Rutgers.
The Canceled Visit
Bailey, widely ranked as a top-five prospect and listed at No. 3 on ESPN’s big board, was scheduled to fly to Philadelphia this week for dinner with the Sixers’ front office and a private on-court workout. However, reports indicate he elected to cancel the visit just days before it was set to occur. This cancellation is particularly noteworthy as it would have marked Bailey’s first reported private workout or visit with any NBA team based in the United States during the pre-draft cycle.
An Unusual Pre-Draft Approach
Ace Bailey’s pre-draft strategy has been described by observers as “confounding” and “bizarre.” Unlike most top prospects who crisscross the country meeting and working out for teams, Bailey has reportedly declined invitations from multiple teams within his projected draft range, which is considered to be anywhere from No. 3 to No. 8. This lack of engagement has reportedly led to questions from teams and contributed to his slide down some recent mock drafts, including falling to No. 6 in ESPN’s latest projections after consistently being ranked in the top three for much of the past year.
Reports suggest that part of the reason for the cancellation and the broader lack of visits stems from Bailey’s camp potentially seeking a promise from the Sixers or other teams before committing to a meeting. Sources indicate there has been “a lot of posturing” involved in his interactions with teams.
The Sixers’ Stance
Despite the canceled visit, the Philadelphia 76ers have reportedly not ruled out selecting Bailey with the No. 3 pick. The team has extensively scouted the Rutgers star throughout his college season, aided by his proximity in Piscataway, New Jersey. They also conducted an interview with him at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago.
The Sixers’ front office, led by President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey, has a history of drafting players without the benefit of a private workout. Notable examples include Tyrese Maxey (2020) and Jared McCain (2024). Sources indicate the team is unlikely to trade down from the No. 3 spot and plans to finalize their decision in the coming week, just ahead of the draft at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Bailey’s Camp Strategy & Draft Stock Impact
Sources close to Bailey’s camp have reportedly informed interested teams that they believe he is a top-three talent in the draft class. However, they are also said to be seeking “a clear pathway to stardom,” prioritizing a situation that offers ample playing time and high usage to maximize his potential. This strategic aim appears to make them comfortable with Bailey being selected anywhere within the top eight picks.
Should the Sixers at No. 3 and Charlotte at No. 4 elect not to draft him, Bailey’s representatives have reportedly expressed belief that teams selecting later, such as the Washington Wizards (No. 6), New Orleans Pelicans (No. 7), or Brooklyn Nets (No. 8), could be aggressive in trading up to secure him. There is speculation that this strategy might suggest Bailey’s camp has already received assurances from a team selecting later in the lottery.
This unconventional approach and the high-profile cancellation of the Sixers visit have sparked significant discussion and concern among some observers and fans. Some fan reactions online have been highly critical, questioning his attitude and suggesting teams should “avoid at all costs,” fearing it could damage his draft stock and future NBA career before it even begins. One scout reportedly described Bailey as “goofy,” though clarified it was related to perceived immaturity rather than character issues.
On-Court Talent Amidst Off-Court Questions
Despite the questions surrounding his pre-draft process, Ace Bailey’s on-court talent is undeniable. As a freshman at Rutgers, he averaged 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, shooting 46% from the field and 34.6% from three-point range. He earned Big Ten All-Freshman Team and Third Team All-Big Ten honors. Though Rutgers did not qualify for the NCAA Tournament, Bailey’s potential as a high-upside wing prospect is widely acknowledged. However, some perceive risk on the offensive end, contributing to his description as a “most polarizing prospect” with varied opinions on his game.
What’s Next for the Sixers at No. 3?
With Ace Bailey’s visit off the table, at least for now, the Sixers continue their evaluations. They have worked out other prospects like Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe (ESPN’s No. 4 prospect) and have met with Duke’s Kon Knueppel via Zoom. Rival teams reportedly believe the Sixers might favor Edgecombe due to his athleticism, strong analytics, and perceived shooting potential.
As the draft approaches, the uncertainty surrounding Ace Bailey’s landing spot – particularly with the No. 3 pick holder – remains one of the draft’s major storylines. The Sixers must weigh Bailey’s immense talent and local scouting history against the unusual nature of his pre-draft engagement, all while considering other compelling options for their prime lottery pick.
