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Rutgers’ Ace Bailey is a projected top-5 pick. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Summary: Bailey is a ridiculous shot-making machine, capable of splashing contested jumpers from every spot on the floor with the swagger of a throwback bucket-getter. But his shooting consistency, plus his raw edges as a shot creator and defender, need sanding down to turn him into a full-on star.
Comparisons: Rudy Gay, Michael Porter Jr.
Strengths
Pull-up shooting: Bailey can drain jumpers off the dribble from anywhere against any type of defense. He can hit leaners going toward his right or left, fadeaways after stopping on a dime, and turnarounds from the post. He has an irrational confidence in him with his ability to rise and fire no matter the situation.
Soft touch: When he gets going as a shooter from midrange and from 3, it feels like there’s nothing that can stop him with his high, quick shooting release. And Bailey has feathery touch on in-between shots with floaters and hook shots.
Athleticism: Bailey has height, length, quickness, and he’s explosive in space, whether it’s cutting in the half court or running the break for lob chances.
Versatility: Even if he never becomes an engine as an off-ball creator, he can be used in different ways whether it’s running off screens, as a cutter, or as a pick-and-pop screener.
Motor: Plays with energy at all times, hustling for shot opportunities on offense. And on defense, he hurries back in transition and jumps passing lanes in the half court.
Adaptability: He improved over the course of his freshman season at Rutgers, notably with his effort on defense, his willingness to pass, and his 3-point rate.
Concerns
Shot creation: His ball-handling is loose, limiting his ability to consistently create against set defenses and get to the basket. And tunnel vision is a common occurrence for him, so he forces contested shots instead of finding open teammates. And when he does pass, he’s often off-target. If he wants to become an All-Star, it’s pivotal that he improves in this category.
At-rim finishing: Though athletic when leaping in space, he is still wiry and…
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Author : Kevin O'Connor
Publish date : 2025-03-26 13:11:00
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