Widely projected as a top-three pick, Ace Bailey has declined workouts and visits with every NBA team, including the Philadelphia 76ers, who currently hold the No. 3 selection.

Bailey, who is considered the consensus No. 3 prospect behind Duke’s Cooper Flagg and Rutgers teammate Dylan Harper, was scheduled to meet with the Sixers’ front office for dinner and a private workout this week. 

Instead, he canceled the visit—mirroring his approach with other teams picking in the top eight. According to reports, Bailey’s camp, led by agent Omar Cooper, has made it clear to teams that they view him as a top-three player and are seeking a franchise that will offer him significant playing time from day one.

This strategy has left many NBA executives perplexed and, in some cases, frustrated. Bailey is the only U.S.-based prospect in this draft cycle who has not conducted a single private workout or in-person visit outside of the NBA Draft Combine.

Some insiders believe his camp is hoping that if he slips past the Sixers at No. 3, another team—such as the Charlotte Hornets at No. 4—might trade up to secure him.

How will this impact Bailey’s Draft stock?

Despite his unconventional pre-draft process, Bailey remains a heavy favorite to be selected in the top five, and most mock drafts still project him to go third overall to Philadelphia.

However, his lack of engagement has created uncertainty around his draft range, with some analysts now speculating he could slide a few spots if teams are put off by his approach or question his readiness for the NBA.

Bailey’s on-court talent is not in doubt. He’s known for his shot-making ability, especially on contested jumpers, and his versatility as a 6-foot-10 forward who can defend multiple positions.

However, scouts have raised questions about his shot selection, decision-making, and how his game will translate to the NBA’s pace and spacing. His measurements at the combine—6-foot-7.5 without shoes—also sparked some debate about his true NBA position.

What is next for Ace Bailey?

The Sixers have not ruled out selecting Bailey despite the lack of a workout, pointing to past decisions where they’ve drafted players without private visits, such as Tyrese Maxey. Bailey’s camp remains confident in his standing, but the uncertainty has made his draft night landing spot one of the most intriguing storylines of 2025.

As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on whether Bailey’s gamble pays off—or if his reluctance to engage with teams leads to a draft-night slide. Either way, Ace Bailey’s path to the NBA is already one of the most unique in recent memory.