Ace Bailey’s Draft Mystery: Top Prospect Skips 76ers, All NBA Team Visits

Rutgers star Ace Bailey, a projected top-three pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has thrown a curveball by canceling a scheduled visit with the Philadelphia 76ers, who hold the No. 3 pick. In a surprising twist, the dynamic guard hasn’t met with any NBA teams, raising eyebrows across the league just days before the draft on June 25 at Barclays Center.

Bailey’s decision to skip team visits, including a planned dinner and private workout with the Sixers, defies the usual pre-draft playbook. Most prospects use these meetings to connect with teams and showcase their skills. Yet, Bailey’s camp is confident, insisting he’s a top-three talent destined for immediate playing time. Only Duke’s Cooper Flagg (projected No. 1 to Dallas) and Rutgers teammate Dylan Harper (likely No. 2 to San Antonio) rank above him in most draft projections.

Despite a so-so season for the Scarlet Knights—averaging 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 33 minutes—Bailey’s potential remains undeniable. The Sixers, led by Daryl Morey, aren’t fazed, having drafted stars like Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain without workouts in the past. Still, Bailey’s no-show strategy has sparked speculation: is he steering his future to a specific team, or just playing hard to get?

With teams in the top 10 reportedly snubbed, Bailey’s mysterious approach could either cement his status as a bold playmaker or leave him sliding down the draft board. One thing’s clear: he’s keeping the NBA guessing.