The recent decision by former Rutgers star Ace Bailey to skip a highly anticipated workout with the Philadelphia 76ers has sparked significant backlash from ESPN analysts Frank Isola and Michael Wilbon. Their remarks, made during a segment on “Pardon the Interruption,” highlight concerns about Bailey's judgment and the influence of his camp as he approaches the NBA Draft.
Frank Isola described Bailey's choice as “delusional,” while Michael Wilbon labeled it “stupid.” Their comments follow Bailey's decision, alongside his agent Omar Cooper, to cancel a planned private workout with the Sixers, a move confirmed by league sources to NJ Advance Media. The Sixers had already arranged travel accommodations for Bailey, showcasing their commitment ahead of the draft.
Isola expressed disbelief at Bailey’s camp perceiving him as a potential top-three pick. “The Sixers have the third pick, so why wouldn’t you want to meet with them?” he questioned, emphasizing the missed opportunity for Bailey to showcase his talent. Wilbon echoed this sentiment, criticizing the notion that Bailey sees an easier path to success with other teams, such as the Washington Wizards. “What is easy about being a star in the NBA? You’re being somewhat delusional,” Isola added.
According to Isola, joining a well-coached team like the Sixers under Nick Nurse could provide Bailey with immediate opportunities in high-stakes games. He noted, “I think his approach to this, it’s not the right way to do it.” This sentiment is echoed by ESPN’s Jonathan Givony, who recently dropped Bailey from the third spot to sixth in his mock draft rankings due to Bailey’s lack of scheduled workouts with NBA teams.
During a recent appearance on the Dunc’d On podcast, Givony elaborated on the implications of Bailey’s strategy, stating that teams are hesitant to draft him because they fear he will become a star elsewhere. “He scares people because they don’t want to draft him, and also because they’re worried if they don’t draft him, he’s going to become a star and make them look very stupid,” Givony explained.
Wilbon’s criticism of Bailey’s decision to skip the Sixers workout was particularly harsh. “I’m going to call this what it is, it’s stupid,” he stated. He went on to express concern about the influence of Bailey’s advisors, suggesting that their guidance could be detrimental to his career. “I hope it’s the people above him who are stupidly advising him...and not him,” Wilbon remarked, urging Bailey to focus on becoming a valuable team player rather than chasing personal stardom.
Wilbon concluded with a strong warning, stating, “In the pros, I don’t want that kid anywhere near me until he can change his attitude.” He emphasized that Bailey’s current mindset is “stupid and counterproductive,” advising him to reconsider the advice he is receiving from his camp.
As Ace Bailey navigates the crucial lead-up to the NBA Draft, the insights from these prominent ESPN analysts serve as a stark reminder of the importance of sound decision-making and the potential consequences of misguided advice in the world of professional basketball.
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