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NBA executive explains why Ace Bailey has the highest ceiling in this draft class

While he might not be the first-overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Ace Bailey could actually be the best prospect.

Ace Bailey #4 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights
ยฉ Candice Ward - Getty ImagesAce Bailey #4 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights have had an up-and-down season, but theyโ€™ve still been one of the must-watch teams throughout the course of the college basketball campaign.

Thatโ€™s had plenty to do with Dylan Harper, but also with Ace Bailey, both of whom are projected to be top-five โ€” or maybe even top-three โ€” selections in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Bailey has averaged 18.0 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game on 46.3% from the floor. And, according to an NBA executive, he might have the highest ceiling in this class.

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Ace Bailey checks all the boxes, says NBA executive

โ€œHe might have the highest ceiling in the draft. I know [heโ€™s] inconsistent and there are question marks with the playmaking โ€” the shotmaking and creation could be elite,โ€ the unnamed executive told ESPNโ€™s Jeremy Woo. โ€œHe checks those boxes if he hits the level he could be capable of.โ€

Ace Bailey #4 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Ace Bailey #4 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights

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Notably, thatโ€™s a lot to say, considering that Duke star Cooper Flagg will also be a part of this draft class. Even so, the 6-foot-10 Bailey has drawn comparisons to players like Kevin Durant.

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Bailey is still raw, and heโ€™ll be a bit of a project for whoever gets him. Even so, with his physical tools and scoring prowess, he could end up being the best player in this class.

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