"I can only control what I can control" — Former Scarlet Knights player Ace Bailey breaks silence on his pre-draft approach
Ace Bailey. Image via: Getty Images
The NBA draft prospect, Ace Bailey, was initially rumored to be a potential draft pick of the Philadelphia 76ers, as they hold the No. 3 pick. The former Rutgers forward was prepping to get picked by one of the better-standing teams currently.
His recent draft stock deteriorated drastically as he refused to attend private workouts with the team. He has reportedly been missing his workout sessions with many other teams, which has raised potential criticisms from the media. However, a day before the NBA Finals, Ace Bailey broke his silence, leaving everyone in utter disbelief.
Rutgers forward Ace Bailey's response to the drafting stage breaks the ice
Ace Bailey was recently scheduled to visit Philadelphia to undergo private workout sessions with the Philadelphia 76ers, who were anticipating his arrival.
However, the 6-foot-10 forward had to cancel his tour. He is the only U.S.-based prospect who has not attended a single workout with any team ahead of the draft, leaving a question mark on his career.
After cancelling one of the workouts with the 76ers, Ace Bailey said, 'I am just blessed to be in this position right now, that's all. I am taking it day by day.' Refusing to attend workouts and declining them simultaneously had a detrimental effect as his name fell on the draft board.
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Undo
All NBA prospects have to go through at least one workout with any NBA team, and Ace Bailey's negligible involvement might sabotage his career.
Ace Bailey CANCELS Workout With Sixers... This Is UNREAL!!! (BREAKING NEWS)
During an interview, he said, 'I am just working on basketball, that's all I am focused on.' He further added, 'I feel like I can only control what I can control. You can think what you think, but I can control what I can control. I can only control me playing basketball.' Although he didn't make it much clearer about why he doesn't want to attend workouts with any team that is interested in him, he faced numerous backlash and criticisms over social media.
The Philadelphia 76ers conducted recent mock drafts where they anticipated drafting players like Dylan Harper and V.J. Edgecombe, despite not having the best workouts. Ace Bailey, a Third-team All-Big Ten selection, has a remarkable record, including playing for the Scarlet Knights. The team is still rooting for drafting him.
Fans await Ace Bailey as he is eager to find his way to the best team, whoever that might be. Right now, he is focused on becoming the best version of himself and just wants to concentrate on basketball.
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