Rutgers men’s basketball coach Steve Pikiell reflects on Ace Bailey’s growth since high school, noting Bailey’s transition from a developing athlete to a five-star recruit. Bailey had an impactful freshman season at Rutgers, averaging 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds, earning All-Big Ten honors. Despite this, Rutgers finished 15-17 and failed to make the NCAA tournament, raising questions about Bailey’s development alongside teammate Dylan Harper, another NBA prospect.
As Bailey approaches the 2025 draft, he’s considered a polarizing prospect, with some viewing him as a potential top-three pick, while others express concerns over his maturity and decision-making, particularly after skipping pre-draft workouts, including one with the Philadelphia 76ers. His playing style received mixed reviews; some scouts praise his scoring ability, likening him to Michael Porter Jr. or Paul George, while others critique his shot selection and overall impact beyond scoring.
Pikiell stands firmly behind Bailey, highlighting his work ethic, coachability, and skill set, including a remarkable shooting ability compared to NBA greats. He defends Bailey against criticism regarding his maturity, suggesting he takes accountability and is well-respected by teammates. The coach acknowledges that the lack of NCAA tournament success can be attributed to the challenging Big Ten environment and injuries that affected their dynamic.
Ultimately, Bailey’s future in the NBA depends on how scouts interpret his potential against the backdrop of recent scrutiny. Pikiell is confident in Bailey’s upside, arguing that at just 18 years old, there’s still considerable room for growth. As teams weigh the risk, Bailey remains a fascinating prospect with a blend of talent and uncertainty.
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