The Philadelphia 76ers are strategically contemplating their No. 3 pick in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft, with a particular focus on standout prospects. Initially, Rutgers forward Ace Bailey was seen as the leading candidate. However, recent buzz suggests that Baylor guard V.J. Edgecombe has become the frontrunner following a promising private workout with the team, leaving a significant impression on management.

Edgecombe's talents, including his impressive averages of 15 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists during his lone college season, combine with his defensive prowess, marked by 2.1 steals per game. Experts believe his adaptability, especially in a fast-paced offense, could complement established players like Tyrese Maxey and Paul George, enhancing the Sixers' offensive dynamic. While Bailey is still in the conversation, Edgecombe's recent rise indicates a shifting priority for Philadelphia, hinting at a possible pivot to secure talent with immense upside.

Ace Bailey, a standout from Rutgers and a projected top-3 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has made a surprising choice by canceling his workout with the Philadelphia 76ers, who hold the No. 3 pick. This decision adds to a rather unconventional pre-draft journey for Bailey, who remains the only U.S.-based prospect yet to showcase his skills for NBA teams. Despite this, there’s speculation that Bailey's camp believes he ranks among the top three talents in the draft, wanting a situation that would guarantee him ample playing time and usage for his development.

Bailey's shooting accuracy and shot selection have raised concerns, particularly his inclination toward mid-range attempts. His pre-draft camp strategy has ignited further debates about his readiness. Currently, he is a betting favorite (-210) to be selected in the top five, but his odds have fluctuated amid the news, suggesting a potential slip on draft day. Meanwhile, the 76ers, despite a disappointing season, have a strong core that includes stars like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, as well as promising talents such as Jared McCain.

Consensus No. 3 NBA Draft prospect Ace Bailey has opted out of a visit with the Philadelphia 76ers, who own the No. 3 pick. This decision follows multiple rejections from teams between picks three and eight, making Bailey the only US-based prospect yet to engage with any franchise aside from the NBA Draft Combine. Despite this, the Sixers remain open to selecting him, as past selections have been made without private workouts.

Bailey, praised for his scoring ability, has been compared to notable draft talents. His shooting prowess is notable, although concerns about consistency and defensive skills linger. As July 2 approaches, it remains unclear how Bailey's evasiveness will affect his draft stock.

Ace Bailey's decision to cancel a workout with the Philadelphia 76ers leaves his draft prospects shrouded in uncertainty. With the 2025 NBA Draft approaching, Bailey, a promising forward from Rutgers, has been projected as a top pick but is now reportedly slipping down boards after declining several invitations to work out with teams in the top eight selections. The Sixers, who have scouted him closely, have not ruled him out despite the cancellation of his Philadelphia visit.

With an average of 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds in his freshman season, Bailey showcased his potential, but his lack of preparation at the NBA Draft Combine raised concerns among teams. As the June draft date approaches, his next moves will be critical in determining whether he can regain the momentum that once had him slated as a potential franchise cornerstone.

The Philadelphia 76ers are zeroing in on their options for the No. 3 pick in the upcoming NBA draft. Although Ace Bailey, a standout from Rutgers and the No. 3 prospect on ESPN's board, canceled his scheduled visit and workout with the team, it doesn't eliminate him from consideration. President Daryl Morey has a history of making bold moves, even selecting players who haven't worked out for the team in the past. The Sixers have also invited other prospects, including Duke's Kon Knueppel and Baylor's VJ Edgecombe, as they finalize their draft strategy.