Ace Bailey Rutgers: Rutgers’ highly anticipated freshman, Ace Bailey, will miss Wednesday’s season opener against Wagner following an injury sustained during practice on Monday. The school has not disclosed the specifics of Bailey’s injury but confirmed he is being monitored on a day-to-day basis. This setback delays the debut of one of college basketball’s most talked-about prospects.

Bailey, a 6-foot-10 wing from McEachern High School in Georgia, has been making headlines as the highest-ranked recruit in Rutgers history. Ranked No. 2 in the ESPN 100 for the class of 2024, Bailey committed to Rutgers in January 2023, fueling significant excitement around the program. Expectations for the Scarlet Knights are higher than ever, with the team entering the season ranked No. 25 in the AP preseason poll—the first time they’ve received this preseason honor since 1978.

The 18-year-old freshman has already given fans a glimpse of his extraordinary potential. In an exhibition matchup against St. John’s last month, Bailey scored 25 points, including four three-pointers, showcasing the talent that makes him a projected top-five pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. He is currently positioned at No. 2 in ESPN’s 2025 draft rankings, trailing only behind Duke’s Cooper Flagg.

Despite Bailey’s absence, Rutgers fans will have plenty to look forward to in Wednesday’s game, including the debut of fellow freshman sensation Dylan Harper. Harper, ranked No. 3 in ESPN’s draft rankings, is also expected to make a significant impact on the court this season.

Rutgers will host Saint Peter’s in their second game of the season on November 11, and the program remains hopeful that Bailey’s injury will not sideline him for an extended period. The Scarlet Knights are counting on his leadership and dynamic skills as they aim to make a deep run and capitalize on their historic preseason ranking.