Every potential top prospect hoping to get drafted into the NBA makes time to do pre-draft workouts for teams. However, Rutgers forward Ace Bailey has a different approach, which has affected his draft stock. Initially, Bailey is the rumored potential draft pick of the Philadelphia 76ers as they hold the No. 3 pick.
Unfortunately for Bailey, his draft stock has gradually plummeted since he has refused to do pre-draft workouts with any organization. The 6-foot-10 forward was scheduled to visit Philly last week to do a private workout with the franchise. However, he canceled the visit and is the only top prospect in the U.S. who has not done a workout.
Ace Bailey
Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Ace Bailey slaps hands with fans after the game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers.
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
His pre-draft approach has drawn criticism from experts, former players and fans. Many are curious to know the reason why he didn't work out with any team. On Tuesday, a day before the 2025 NBA draft, Bailey broke his silence.
“I’m just working on basketball,” Bailey said. “That’s all I’m focused on.”
“I feel like I can only control what I can control,” he added. “You can think what you think, but I can control what I can control. [I can only control] me playing basketball.”
He didn't specify why he didn't want to do any workout with any of the teams that are interested in him. In recent mock drafts, the 76ers are predicted to draft V.J. Edgecombe, despite not having the best workout. It was reported by ESPN's Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo that Edgecombe showed a bit of "nervousness" during his private workout.
However, he still left a strong impression on the 76ers.
But drafting Bailey hasn't left the minds of Philly's front office. They're still considering using the No. 3 pick to draft the scoring forward. However, experts believe that Edgecombe is in pole position to be selected by the 76ers.