Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George addressed the recent controversy surrounding top draft prospect Ace Bailey skipping a scheduled workout with the franchise, offering pointed criticism during the latest episode of Podcast P, presented by Wave Original.
Bailey, projected as a top-three pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, canceled a private session with Philadelphia this week. When asked for his thoughts, George didn’t hold back.
“I think if I’m Ace Bailey, I can’t get mad if my stock drops,” George said. “He’s cancelled all workouts and hasn’t worked out for any team.”
George acknowledged that the 76ers were scheduled to host the 6-foot-8 Rutgers forward, but Bailey withdrew on the same day. The veteran wing questioned the strategy being used by Bailey’s camp.
“You’re not in a position to be making those demands,” George added. “Make it to the league first.”
Bailey, who averaged 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds as a freshman, has not conducted workouts for any team ahead of the June draft. His camp, represented by Adie Von Gontard and Daniel Green, has reportedly allowed Sharife Cooper’s father, Omar Cooper, to direct pre-draft communications, despite Cooper lacking certification as an NBA agent.
“It’s for sure the people around him,” George said. “I don’t know who’s representing him, but I don’t think they’re going about it the right way.”
The 76ers own the No. 3 overall pick—their highest selection since 2017—and have been linked to Bailey for weeks. Despite the canceled workout, Philadelphia remains a strong candidate to draft him.
Bailey’s unwillingness to meet with teams, particularly Philadelphia, has led to speculation that his camp prefers a different landing spot.
The 76ers finished 13th in the Eastern Conference with a 24–58 record and are seeking to add long-term talent alongside Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and George.
