“Ace” Bailey Has Untapped Potential to Help Victor Wembanyama in the Congested Backcourt
One of the most important draft selections in the history of the San Antonio Spurs is up for grabs. Despite reservations about Dylan Harper’s perimeter shooting and general fit with team mainstay Victor Wembanyama, league insiders say the Spurs are leaning toward picking the dynamic playmaker from Rutgers with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Harper, a 6-foot-6 combo guard, is unquestionably talented and is renowned for his exceptional vision, physicality, and basketball IQ. Because of his ability to tear down defenses and manage the tempo, he has been compared to Luka Dončić and James Harden.
But with the Spurs’ continued need for dependable shooting and floor spacing around Wembanyama, there are still concerns about how his skill set fits into the present lineup.
Critics contend that Harper’s erratic three-point shooting and ball-dominant approach might add depth to a backcourt that is already stocked with guards in the growth stage. However, according to those close to the Spurs front office, San Antonio views Harper as a long-term offensive creator who can relieve Wembanyama of some of the responsibility and let the big man of the generation flourish in a more flexible offensive scheme.
At No. 2, Airious “Ace” Bailey, a 6-foot-9 wing with exceptional athleticism and untapped potential, is still a strong contender. He is a tempting option because of his highlight-reel dunks, shot-blocking prowess, and fascinating fit next to Wembanyama.
Although Bailey is not as polished as Harper, he could have a greater ceiling if he grows up under the Spurs’ renownedly effective player development program.
Speculation is still going strong with less than 48 hours till the decision is made public. With Harper’s polished skill set and instant impact, will the Spurs choose the safer path? Or will they take a chance on Bailey’s positional flexibility and long-term potential?
One thing is certain: the choice will determine how the Spurs rebuild in the future. San Antonio needs to find a careful balance between fit, upside, and identity after a 2024 season that saw Wembanyama’s dominance in spurts but little team success. The stakes are extremely high for both Harper and Bailey.
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