With many mock drafts placing him as high as No. 2 or No. 3 overall pick, Ace Bailey is a top prospect for this year’s NBA draft class. The freshman wing from Rutgers University has made a name for himself as a versatile scorer and a dynamic two-way player during his lone collegiate season.

Bailey declared for the 2025 NBA Draft after an impressive freshman campaign where he averaged 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game over 30 starts. He earned All-Big Ten and Big Ten All-Freshman honors, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor.

His shooting splits were notable, converting 46% from the field and 34.6% from three-point range, highlighting his range and scoring versatility.

Elite Shot-Making and Versatility

Scouts rave about Bailey’s shooting ability, describing him as a “ridiculous shot-making machine” who can knock down contested jumpers from all over the court with confidence and swagger reminiscent of old-school scorers.

His offensive game features a smooth jump shot and the ability to create his own shot, making him a matchup nightmare for defenders. Physically, Bailey is a slender 6’10” forward with the length and athleticism to guard multiple positions, from wing to power forward.

His defensive versatility and shot-blocking ability add to his appeal as a potential two-way star. While his handle and playmaking are still developing, scouts believe these are areas he can improve with experience, which would elevate his game even further.

NBA Draft Outlook and Fit

Most projections have Bailey going in the top half of the lottery, with some mock drafts placing him as high as the No. 2 pick behind Duke’s Cooper Flagg. The New Orleans Pelicans have been linked as a potential landing spot, eyeing Bailey as a possible cornerstone to build around, especially if they lose key players in free agency.

Bailey’s unique blend of size, shooting, and defensive potential makes him an attractive prospect for teams looking to add a versatile forward who can stretch the floor and guard multiple positions. While he still has some areas to refine, his ceiling is considered very high, and he is expected to be a “green room” invite at the NBA Draft in June.

Ace Bailey is one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft. With his elite shooting, length, and defensive versatility, all eyes will be on Bailey to see which team will secure his talents.