Ace Bailey, a 6-foot-8 forward, has captivated the basketball world with his scoring prowess and unique journey toward the NBA draft. Once projected as a top-three pick, Bailey’s outstanding performances during his lone season at Rutgers, where he averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds, have solidified his status as a potential standout in this year’s class.
That ability to score is what really separates Bailey from many of the other guards and wings in this draft class. He proved to be a double threat, getting out of an ugly slump to sink 34.6% of his long-range attempts and finishing plays in the paint. From January 1st on he had five games with at least four threes. This performance reaffirmed his impressive shooting range and ability to stretch defenses.
Though his numbers are off the charts, Bailey’s draft process has turned heads for all the wrong reasons. He’s been somewhat successful so far in avoiding media scrutiny on his overall approach. This has led many NBA executives to speculate about his level of commitment and long term plan. Bailey then suddenly scrapped his in-person workout with the team. This move only stoked further suspicions about what he really had in mind.
“I’m just blessed to be in this position I am right now. That’s all. Take it day-by-day.” – Ace Bailey
This statement is indicative of Bailey’s overall mindset—too focused on today to be worried about the rumors affecting his draft stock. His moves have created confusion. This has sparked comparisons to NFL superstars John Elway and Eli Manning, who both reportedly worked their way to the teams they desired in their respective drafts. As ESPN analyst Jay Bilas pointed out—this is exactly how Bailey’s case fits into these high-profile examples.
Though most analysts warn that Bailey’s decision-making and attitude could ruin his chances in the NFL draft, there are many who still have faith in his talent. Even NBA player Paul George had something to say about Bailey’s situation. He thinks that if he were in Bailey’s position, he would understand the danger of my stock going down due to contradictory efforts.
Bailey’s most profound impact may be felt off the court his teammates have a markedly different view. Harper, a fellow player at Rutgers, praised Bailey’s character, stating, “If the energy is down, he’s going to bring the energy up. Him in the locker room is probably the best thing that’s probably going for him. His energy is contagious and you’re going to feel it whether you want to feel it or not.”
Ace Bailey was drafted second overall by the San Antonio Spurs. This decision only reaffirms his 5-tool talent and reflects the organization’s faith that he can have a successful professional career. His path embodies both the madness that can come from the draft process and the vast opportunity that exists for success at the highest level of basketball.
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