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More than a year after committing to Rutgers, Ace Bailey is ready to start his freshman season. He was predicted by On3 to commit to the Auburn Tigers but decided to join Rutgers and Steve Pikiell.
Bailey became the fifth commitment for the Scarlet Knights on Jan. 15, 2023, joining Dylan Grant, Bryce Dortch, Dylan Harper and Lathan Sommerville.
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Bailey was the No. 2 overall recruit in the Class of 2024. He was also the No. 2 small forward and the No. 1 prospect from Georgia. During his senior year at McEachern High School in Powder Springs, Georgia, Bailey won the Gatorade Player of the Year award after averaging 33.4 points, 15.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 2.9 blocks. He led his team to a 26-6 record and the Class A title.
He was also part of the GHSA Boys Basketball Committee's all-state first team and a McDonald's All-American. Additionally, the 6-foot-10 forward played for Team USA's U17 squad and participated in the Nike Hoop Summit and the Jordan Brand Classic.
Adam Finkelstein, the director of scouting for 247Sports, talked about Bailey's athleticism and passing ability in August:
"Bailey has terrific size and effortless athleticism on the wing. He covers the court fluidity, plays way above the rim, and can move laterally as well. Because his physical tools can be so glaring, it’s easy to underestimate his skill set, which includes a good-looking shooting stroke."
Ace Bailey earns praise from Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell
With the commitment of Dyland Harper and Ace Bailey, the Rutgers' roster is loaded heading into the new season. According to 247Sports, they are No. 9 overall in terms of recruiting. Both Bailey and Harper are five-star recruits.
During an interview with NBC Sports on Saturday, Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell talked about his roster and commended Bailey's versatility.
"Ace Bailey may be the most versatile wing player in the country," Pikiell said (timestamp 1:00). "What he does is pass the ball. He's an elite 6-foot-10 passer, really sees the floor and can make plays. But he's an emergency defensive guy, and can really block shots from the weak side. .. He makes guys around him better, which I think the great ones do."
How far do you think Rutgers will go this coming season?
