From top prospect to possible draft fall: Why Ace Bailey is losing value

Ace Bailey has long been seen as one of the top projected picks for the 2025 NBA Draft, although the Rutgers Scarlet Knights star’s stock has fallen in the weeks before the event, which takes place in Brooklyn on Wednesday, June 26 and Thursday, June 27. 

The 18-year-old has been touted as a future NBA superstar by many thanks to his combination of natural ability, technical talent and physical attributes. But it turns out he may not quite be the physical specimen everyone thought he was, which is part of the problem.

Ace Bailey’s disappearing inches 

Somewhat bizarrely, Bailey is reported to have “lost” 3 inches. While playing with Rutgers, he was listed as being 6′ 10” but measured “only” 6’7 1/2” at the draft combine in May. It turns out size does matter, with those 2 1/2” causing his value - and prospects - to drop. 

That, though, isn’t the only thing that has weakened Bailey’s position. 

Also following the combine, ESPN revealed some franchises had concerns over his “unpolished” team interviews, an important part of an NBA player’s role in the media age. 

No team visits, 76ers workout cancelled

On top of that, there has been criticism of Bailey’s attitude, specifically, it seems, in relation to his own opinion of himself before he even sets foot on an NBA court. 

The shooting guard was once the projected No. 3 pick for the draft, which would have seen him link up with the Philadelphia 76ers. Sixers star Paul George is one of many voices who have lashed out at the young prospect for refusing to make any individual team visits before the draft, which is unlikely to have earned him many fans within the league.

Bailey had been due to work out with Philadelphia, but cancelled at the last minute. “You’re not in a position to be making those demands,” George stated on the latest episode of Podcast P with Paul George. 

“Expensive” Bailey turns down Shaq and Reebok

NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, now Reebok’s President of Basketball, also hinted that he believed Bailey had ideas above his station after he turned down a sponsorship deal with the footwear and clothing brand. 

“Had the opportunity to sign Ace Bailey, but he’s a very expensive ticket. I don’t even want to have that conversation. So, now it’s just back to the drawing board,” Shaq explained. 

Bailey ultimately signed NIL deals with Nike and the Knights of the Raritan worth a reported $1.6 million, making him one of the best-paid stars coming out of college basketball this year. 

Bailey is still expected to be drafted early on in the first round, but most mock drafts agree the Rutgers teenager will have to wait a little longer than previously expected.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.