Rutgers forward Ace Bailey has canceled a scheduled workout and dinner with the Philadelphia 76ers, just days before the 2025 NBA Draft.
Rreportedly, that the projected top-three pick informed the Sixers on Wednesday that he would not attend the private session originally planned for Friday.
Bailey, ranked No. 3 on ESPN’s draft board, has yet to conduct a single workout for any team.
Philadelphia holds the No. 3 pick—its highest draft selection since 2017—and has been widely linked to the 6-foot-8 wing in recent mock drafts.
NBA insider Marc Stein reported on his Substack that, contrary to speculation, Bailey’s representatives have not demanded a guarantee from the Sixers to select him.
“There’s no savvy reason to avoid working out for Philadelphia unless you’re secure and comfortable with the Hornets picking you at No. 4,” Stein wrote.
However, he also noted that there has been no concrete indication of a draft-night arrangement between Bailey and Charlotte.
Bailey’s pre-draft approach has raised questions across the league, as teams attempt to assess whether his strategy is a sign of draft confidence or organizational preference.
His camp, which includes agents Adie Von Gontard and Daniel Green, is reportedly being led by Omar Cooper—a non-certified representative and father of former Hawks guard Sharife Cooper.
NBA teams have described Cooper as the primary contact in Bailey’s process, though he has not responded to Stein’s requests for comment.
Despite the uncertainty, Bailey’s talent remains widely acknowledged. He averaged 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds as a freshman and is considered one of the best shot-makers in the class.
Scouts praise his two-way potential, especially his athleticism, rebounding, and ability to defend multiple positions.
Philadelphia, which finished 24–58 last season, is looking to add young talent around Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Paul George.
The franchise is conducting workouts with several lottery prospects while continuing to evaluate its draft strategy ahead of June 25.
It remains unclear if Bailey plans to meet with any teams before draft night.
