Ace Bailey reveals the second he realized making it to the NBA was actually attainable (Video)

Ace Bailey is likely one of the high names within the 2025 NBA draft, and he lately shared the second he realized he might compete on the subsequent stage. In a clip from “The Deep 3” podcast on Friday, Bailey recalled the highschool match efficiency that satisfied him he belonged amongst elite prospects.

“I performed in opposition to SFG, Try for Greatness,” Bailey mentioned. “That they had Marietta after which blocked Bryce, got here down, and dunked on (his) teammates, and it was like every thing was getting simple — attending to the rim and making the fitting photographs.

“After that, I would not even say that recreation … however I even have a second that I type of known as like, ‘OK, he is good, OK, he is good, I can see this.’ I assume after that recreation, extra folks got here to look at the following recreation. I performed in opposition to Quavo’s staff, and it was the identical factor. I assume that match simply confirmed it out; it was identical to, ‘OK, he is really good.”

Bailey performed for Rutgers final season and showcased his scoring instincts, athleticism and flexibility. Heading into the draft, he’s thought of a high three decide.

The draft might be on June 25 and 26 at Barclays Middle in New York. Bailey might be trying to go as excessive as No. 2, with fellow Rutgers star Dylan Harper standing in his means.

Philadelphia 76ers projected to pick out Ace Bailey

After a poor 2024-25 season, the Philadelphia 76ers are hoping to construct a stable roster for subsequent season. They personal the No. 3 decide and have a number of prospects they may choose.

In Bleacher Report’s mock draft, they have been projected to pick out Ace Bailey, as he provides top-level shotmaking.

The guard averaged 17.6 factors and seven.2 rebounds in his lone season with the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. Nonetheless, there are query marks round his playmaking, as he solely recorded 1.3 assists per recreation.