Ace Bailey, once considered a top-three pick in the 2025 NBA draft, is watching his stock slide just days before the big night. His camp reportedly believes he is banking on a team trading up to select him at No.3 or No.4 if he starts to slide.
According to ESPN’s DraftExpress, Bailey has yet to conduct a single workout and delinked visits from several teams within his projected range. The Rutgers freshman targets only franchises offering him a clear path to stardom. He had a strong season at Rutgers, averaging 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks. His lack of team involvement has made some executives unsure about taking him.
Bailey’s situation is compared to that of football prospect Shedeur Sanders, who also saw his draft stock fall due to similar choices. Meanwhile, VJ Edgecombe moved up on draft boards. Known for his defense, athleticism, and improved shooting, Edgecombe is now a more reliable pick in the top five.
Ace Bailey’s draft stock has been falling due to his unwillingness to visit several teams and the fact that he has yet to conduct a single workout, per @DraftExpress
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 17, 2025
Bailey believes he’s a top-three player in the draft and wants to be selected by a team that will provide a… pic.twitter.com/qyhuteKr14
If Bailey doesn’t change his approach, he could fall further than expected. Teams want talent, but also want players ready to work and fit into their system.
Ace Bailey’s Draft Slide Raises Concerns About His Future
Bailey’s draft stock is slipping fast, and it’s not just about skipped workouts anymore. Behind the scenes, scouts are questioning his mindset and long-term potential. Concerns about his shot selection, leadership, and the disappointing 15-17 Rutgers season, despite top-tier talent like Dylen Harper, are drawing red flags. Some doubt whether Bailey is ready to make a serious pro presence.
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Once projected as a top-three pick, Bailey now slides to No. 5 in CBC Sports’ latest mock draft. With Utah rumored to trade that pick for win-now talent, Bailey’s raw game may not fit their plans. Once this is clear, his future suddenly feels uncertain.
