Rutgers forward Ace Bailey canceled a scheduled private workout and dinner with the Philadelphia 76ers this week, but that hasn’t eliminated the possibility of the franchise selecting him with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
According to NBA Big Board’s Rafael Barlowe, league sources maintain that Philadelphia remains in play for Bailey. One agent told Barlowe, “[Daryl] Morey doesn’t care about all that noise. If he wants Ace, then that’s exactly who he’s going to take.”
Bailey, the No. 3 prospect on ESPN’s board, informed the Sixers on Wednesday that he would not be participating in the previously scheduled session on Friday. He has yet to conduct any pre-draft workouts for any team.
The 6-foot-8 freshman averaged 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds last season and is widely viewed as one of the most versatile wings in this draft class. Scouts credit his two-way potential, particularly his rebounding, defensive switchability, and ability to score from all three levels.
Despite the missed meeting, not all agents believe Bailey is secure in the top three. Another lottery prospect’s representative told Barlowe bluntly, “Ace is f****ing the draft order up.”
Philadelphia holds its highest draft pick since 2017 and has been linked to Bailey throughout the pre-draft process. However, recent developments have introduced speculation regarding his availability and interest.
NBA insider Marc Stein reported on Thursday that Bailey’s representatives have not asked the Sixers for a promise. “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.
Still, there is no public confirmation of a draft-night agreement between Bailey’s camp and Charlotte.
Bailey’s process has been unconventional. He is represented by agents Adie Von Gontard and Daniel Green, but NBA teams say his communications are being directed by Omar Cooper, the father of former Atlanta guard Sharife Cooper.
Cooper is not a certified agent and has not responded to multiple requests for comment, according to Stein.
The Sixers, who finished 13th in the Eastern Conference with a 24–58 record, are aiming to add young talent alongside Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Paul George.
