Thu Nov 07 13:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Rutgers Star Freshman Ace Bailey Injured, Delaying NBA Debut
Rutgers University announced that freshman standout Ace Bailey, a projected top-five pick in the 2025 NBA draft, will miss Wednesday’s season opener against Wagner due to an injury sustained in practice on Monday. The nature of the injury was not disclosed, and Bailey will be evaluated on a day-to-day basis.
The 6-foot-10 wing from McEachern High School (Georgia) was expected to be a key player for the Scarlet Knights, who are entering the season with their highest expectations in program history. Bailey, ranked No. 2 in the ESPN 100 for the 2024 class, is considered a contender for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA draft. He already showed flashes of his talent, scoring 25 points and making four 3-pointers in a recent exhibition game against St. John’s.
Despite Bailey’s absence, Rutgers fans will still get to see the debut of fellow freshman and top-five recruit Dylan Harper, ranked No. 3 in ESPN’s draft rankings. Harper, along with Bailey, has contributed to the high expectations surrounding Rutgers this season, with the team being ranked No. 25 in the preseason AP poll.
Rutgers’ next game will be at home against Saint Peter’s on November 11th.
First Piper 