In the lead-up to the 2025 NBA Draft, most prospects participated in numerous pre-draft workouts across the country, hoping to impress teams and secure high selections. However, Ace Bailey, one of the top talents in the draft, took an unusual path by declining workouts with both the Utah Jazz and the Philadelphia 76ers, teams holding significant draft picks. Reports indicate Bailey may be the first American player to skip all pre-draft workouts, a rare move that caught the attention of league insiders and executives.

Jazz Take a Risk with Bailey’s Selection

Despite Bailey’s absence from pre-draft sessions, Utah Jazz CEO Danny Ainge chose to draft him with the No. 5 pick. This decision prompted widespread commentary throughout the NBA, spotlighting both Bailey’s potential and the risks attached to his unconventional approach. Bailey’s decision challenges traditional expectations about showcasing commitment and readiness ahead of the draft, fueling debate on how much pre-draft behavior influences a player’s entry into the league.

Draymond Green Delivers Candid Response to Bailey’s Strategy

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green addressed Bailey’s choice during a recent episode of The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis. Recognizing Bailey’s talent but concerned about the implications of skipping workouts, Green offered blunt advice about the consequences of such a decision.

I don’t necessarily think it hurt. It didn’t hurt [him]. [He] went five. Whooptie-[expletive]-do,

Green remarked.

But you’re walking into the NBA with a strike, and I think that’s what’s most important to understand.

Green stressed that Bailey is entering the league with doubts hanging over his character and work ethic, challenges that could affect his career longevity and reputation.

Concerns Over Bailey’s Character and Work Ethic

Drawing from his own experiences with scrutiny around his character on and off the court, Green recognized the weight a player’s perceived attitude carries once they reach the NBA. He highlighted that Bailey’s refusal to participate in workouts casts a shadow over his commitment and professionalism.

You’re walking in with a question mark on your character. You’re walking in with a question mark on work ethic,

said Green.

You’re walking in with a question mark on your camp.

In a league where team chemistry and locker room culture can dictate success, Bailey’s approach challenges the values many organizations, including the Jazz, prioritize.

Guidance for Navigating NBA Expectations

Green provided actionable advice for Bailey, emphasizing the importance of humility and respect as he begins his professional career. He suggested that Bailey should adopt a mindset of learning from veterans and committing fully to team culture.

Be the first in the gym. Don’t go into the organization causing any problems,

Green urged.

Go into the organization knowing that [there are] some guys that have been there before you [and] you can learn from them.

While Bailey’s skills are undeniable, Green reminded him that past performance at Rutgers holds little sway in the NBA’s business environment, where daily professionalism and team dynamics carry more weight than college accomplishments.

I ain’t saying go bow down to anybody,

Green said.

But know that it’s some guys that know more than you, that you can learn from. Go in there and be a great rookie. That don’t mean don’t go play great. Go be a great rookie.

Reality Check on NBA’s Demands and Expectations

Green’s counsel was not only motivational but also a stark reminder that the NBA quickly moves on from players who fail to meet its rigorous standards. For an 18-year-old power forward skipping workouts, this warning carries particular weight.

This league will move on from you fast,

Green cautioned.

But just know what you up against and go prove everybody wrong. That’s what it boils down to.

He closed with a sobering but supportive message:

Welcome to the league. Congratulations on all your hard work. But now the real work starts. Staying in the league is even tougher.

What’s Next for Ace Bailey?

With the ball now in Ace Bailey’s court, the pressure to prove himself both on and off the floor is immense. Thanks to Danny Ainge’s decision, Bailey has a platform with the Utah Jazz, but the NBA’s unrelenting nature means his future will be determined not just by talent but by how well he adapts to professional expectations. The coming months will reveal whether Bailey can overcome the initial doubts and carve out a lasting career in the league.