Ace Bailey’s Sudden Withdrawal from Sixers Workout Sparks Speculation—What’s Really Going On?

Ace Bailey, the much-touted No. 3 prospect in the 2025 NBA Draft, seems to be sending a clear message: he’s not exactly eager to cozy up with the Philadelphia 76ers, the team holding the third pick. Just a week before the draft takes center stage in Brooklyn, Bailey has pulled the plug on a visit to Philly—a meeting that was supposed to include dinner with team brass and a private workout. It’s a bold move, especially considering the hoopla around a top-tier talent like him. Now, the Sixers, despite scouting him all season and chatting with him at the NBA Draft Combine, are reportedly still unsure whether to nab him or shuffle him down their list. Bailey’s skipping out on team visits far and wide, making him the only U.S.-based prospect keeping things tight-lipped beyond the combine stage. His camp insists he’s locked in as a top-three pick but is eyeing a landing spot where he can grab serious minutes right off the bat. If Philly and Charlotte pass, don’t be surprised if other teams start maneuvering hard to move up for this Rutgers sharpshooter. Curious to see how this one unfolds? LEARN MOREDespite most outlets having him at No. 3, it’s not a guarantee that Bailey goes third. It’s difficult to tell what he wants if he’s not meeting with any teams, but we might at least get an inkling when the draft is held next Wednesday.AdvertisementAdvertisement

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Where does Ace Bailey actually want to go in the 2025 NBA Draft? (David Banks-Imagn Images)

Here’s how O’Connor describes Bailey as a prospect:

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