With the NBA Draft approaching, 18-year-old Ace Bailey, a former Rutgers standout projected as a Top-5 pick, is drawing significant attention. However, Bailey is complicating the selection process by opting out of scheduled visits with several teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers. His camp states he wants a clear path to stardom, emphasizing the importance of meaningful playing time from the outset in his career.
Debate Over Charlotte Hornets as a Potential Landing Spot
On a recent episode of Nightcap, Shannon Sharpe and former NBA player Joe Johnson debated whether Bailey should join the Charlotte Hornets and play alongside LaMelo Ball. Johnson argued that the Hornets would allow Bailey to showcase his skills and put up impressive numbers. Sharpe, however, expressed skepticism, suggesting Bailey would be reluctant to join the team.
Sharpe joked about Bailey’s hesitation.
“He’s like, ‘I don’t want to get added to that.’”
—Shannon Sharpe
Johnson countered with optimism about Bailey’s opportunity there.
“He’s gonna be able to put up them numbers that he probably thinking about putting up. With Hornets, you better put up some numbers. Those numbers be better over there than they gonna be in Philly.”
—Joe Johnson
Sharpe Highlights Challenges of Small-Market Stardom
Johnson’s point about immediate minutes and visibility in a smaller market is logical, but Sharpe argued that joining the Hornets could hinder Bailey’s rise. Using an analogy and referencing LaMelo Ball’s experience, Sharpe illustrated his concern about playing in Charlotte.
“If a tree falls in a forest and nobody hears it, does it make a sound?”
—Shannon Sharpe
“Look at Melo. Melo averaged 25, 26 in Charlotte. Nobody paying no attention to it.”
—Shannon Sharpe
The Reality of Playing in a Small-Market Team
Sharpe’s point is underscored by the fact that LaMelo Ball, despite being one of the league’s most exciting young talents, receives limited national attention primarily because he plays for a small-market team. Johnson acknowledged that success in such markets depends heavily on winning.
“It’s ’cause they got to win, man,”
—Joe Johnson
“In them markets, you got to win in order to get some notoriety. You got to win.”
—Joe Johnson
Charlotte Hornets’ Struggles and Impact on Prospects
The Hornets have historically struggled, with no championships and little postseason success, which adds a layer of uncertainty for any young player considering them. While Bailey could attempt to reshape the franchise’s fortunes, the Hornets’ absence of a strong legacy might not appeal to a prospect eager to build a high-profile career. Many rising stars prefer to join teams with an established history of success, which Charlotte currently lacks.
Implications for Ace Bailey’s Future
The conversation highlights the complex decision Ace Bailey faces regarding his NBA future. Choosing a small-market team like the Hornets could offer early playing time but limits exposure and acclaim. His desire for a clear path to stardom may push him toward organizations with deeper histories or bigger media markets. As the draft nears, Bailey’s choices will considerably influence his visibility and career trajectory, making this an important moment for both the player and interested franchises.