Rutgers star Ace Bailey is considered the most polarizing player in the 2025 NBA Draft. While many see him as a potential superstar, some express concerns about how his unconventional shooting technique will translate to the NBA. Despite being projected as a top-five pick, his draft position remains uncertain.

Bailey is heavily favored to be chosen in the top five of the NBA Draft, according to FanDuel Sportsbook, but has yet to complete any pre-draft workouts. He does have a scheduled workout with the Philadelphia 76ers, but further visits have not been planned leading up to the draft on June 25.

In CBS Sports’ latest mock draft, Bailey was predicted to go No. 3 to the 76ers.

Bailey’s ability as a scorer may solidify his top-five status, although his shot selection raised eyebrows during his college career. He has impressed with his difficult shot-making, reflecting a confidence that sets him apart. Despite a challenging season, where he attempted 81 guarded jumpers with a 48.1% success rate, rumors swirl around his height, with doubts about his actual measurement appearing at the NBA Draft Combine.

As Bailey himself stated, “The shots I work on in workouts are shots I do in the game…What might be a bad shot to you, you don’t work on it. I work on it.”

Ace Bailey Getty Images