Rutgers Freshman Ace Bailey to Miss Season Opener Due to Injury

Highly touted freshman guard Ace Bailey will miss the season opener for No. 25 Rutgers after sustaining an undisclosed injury in practice on Monday. The injury, which occurred during a practice session, has been described as not severe but significant enough to keep Bailey out of the team’s first game against Wagner on Wednesday night.

Bailey, who stands at 6-foot-10 and is known for his refined perimeter game, is one of the most anticipated freshmen in college basketball this season. He was ranked as the No. 2 overall prospect in the Class of 2024 by 247Sports and is the highest-rated signee in Rutgers program history. Bailey had already generated considerable hype by scoring a team-high 25 points in an exhibition loss to St. John's last month.

The injury is considered day-to-day, and while it is not expected to be a long-term issue, Bailey’s availability for the team’s second game of the season remains uncertain. This development slightly dampens the excitement surrounding one of the most anticipated seasons in Rutgers basketball history, especially with fellow five-star prospect Dylan Harper also on the roster. Harper, who was voted Big Ten preseason Freshman of the Year by CBS Sports, is expected to play a significant role in Bailey’s absence.

Rutgers’ schedule over the next few weeks, which includes games against Saint Peter's, Monmouth, Merrimack, and Kennesaw State, is relatively light and should help alleviate any pressure to rush Bailey back into action. This could also enhance the focus on Harper, who is a well-rounded combo-guard at 6-foot-6).