The 2025 NBA Draft has become one of the most debated topics among fans. The Dallas Mavericks won the Draft Lottery, and many believe they will select Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 pick. This potential choice has received strong support from most fans. However, two-time NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins sees things differently. He disagrees with the popular opinion and surprised many by revealing his own favorite for the top spot.
“I like Ace Bailey. To me, Ace Bailey is the No. 1 pick. I think Ace Bailey’s the No. 1 pick…I think he’s the closest thing we’ve seen to Tracy McGrady,” stated DeMarcus Cousins on Run It Back. While Cooper Flagg continues to dominate media coverage, Bailey’s impressive talent has not received much attention. His physical capacity and scoring ability makes him one of the most exciting young talents in the country.
Bailey played 30 games this season and made a strong impact. He averaged 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. His shooting numbers also stood out. 46% from the field and 34.6% from beyond the arc. These stats show he can score in different ways and do it efficiently. As a result, the McGrady comparison feels valid, especially when considering his offensive versatility.
With the Dallas Mavericks expected to take Cooper Flagg and the San Antonio Spurs reportedly targeting Dylan Harper, the Philadelphia 76ers now appear in line to draft Ace Bailey in the 2025 NBA Draft. Adding fuel to the speculation, Bailey reposted a TikTok video from a fan account that imagined him as a future Sixers player. The move sparked buzz among fans, many of whom now believe he’s genuinely interested in joining the franchise.
Ace Bailey #4 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Sixers’ player Paul George praises Ace Bailey’s talent as future NBA star
DeMarcus Cousins is not the only one who praised Ace Bailey’s talent. Paul George joined the conversation during an episode of ‘Podcast P’. The Sixers star was asked who he would select as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Without hesitation, the Sixers star named Bailey as his top choice.
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Moreover, George explained that the young Rutgers star standout is a raw talent with huge potential. He even said Bailey has a higher upside than Cooper Flagg. In addition, he praised the efficiency Ace shows on the court. However, he also made it clear that choosing Cooper would still be a solid decision.
Both players, according to George, have what it takes to become NBA superstars. After these comments, speculation around Ace Bailey’s possible future with the Philadelphia 76ers continues to grow.
