Five teams that could unlock Ace Bailey’s star potential

Airious “Ace” Bailey was once a projected top-three pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. But with the big night approaching, the 6-foot-10 wing, who was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is slipping in mock drafts—now listed as low as No. 8, according to For The Win.

The speculated fall is not because of talent. Bailey averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds in one season at Rutgers and has serious upside to develop into an NBA star. But the headlines have shifted as Bailey’s camp seems to want a clear path to stardom.

With the top three teams looking elsewhere, Bailey cold on Utah and talent graveyards like Charlotte and Washington lurking, draft night is wide open for a bold move.

Here are five teams that make the most sense for Bailey.

Brooklyn Nets

Brooklyn offers the mix of market size, opportunity and developmental support that Bailey’s camp is reportedly prioritizing. The Nets may not have the Knicks’ history, but it’s still New York—ideal for brand-building. With head coach Jordi Fernandez entering his second season and a healthy core of Cam Thomas, Nic Claxton and Cameron Johnson, Bailey could be the missing piece for the Nets to become a playoff team again in the Eastern Conference. This would give Bailey the chance to shine on a competitive team without getting lost in a full rebuild or a toxic losing culture.

Houston Rockets

This one might surprise some, but hear it out. Houston’s roster is crowded with young wings, but Ime Udoka just signed a long-term extension and has built a culture around defense and accountability. Bailey wouldn’t be handed anything, but he’d be pushed to earn his spot, which could be the best thing for his growth. The Rockets have the No. 10 pick and the trade chips to move up if they want him. Amen Thompson has shown that playing time can be earned early, and the Rockets have an opening for a dynamic shot creator who can knock down the three. If he rises to the challenge, Bailey could end up with a key role playing deep into the playoffs right away.

Philadelphia 76ers

Bailey canceled his workout with Philadelphia, but the fit still makes sense. Led by Nick Nurse, the 76ers are trying to win now and need depth behind Paul George, who comes with injury concerns. Bailey could give this team a burst of youthful energy on the wing alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain. 

Memphis Grizzlies

A Tennessee native returning home makes for a compelling story—and a practical fit. With Desmond Bane gone and the No. 16 pick in hand, Memphis could trade up to snag Bailey. Playing with Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. would ease the offensive burden while giving the Grizzlies a new wing threat. This is a market that would rally around Bailey, and the team has a clear need for his skill set.

Charlotte Hornets

Yes, the Hornets haven't been able to turn young talent into wins, but putting Bailey alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller would create a young, high-upside trio with serious offensive potential. With Ball and Miller's injury history, there would also likely be a huge opportunity for Bailey to start right away with a major role in the offense.

If the Hornets pass, and Bailey slides outside the top five, don’t be surprised if Brooklyn or Houston makes a move. In a draft class filled with questions, fit could matter more than slot, and Bailey might just become the steal of the night.