Draft Prospect Highlights: Amari Bailey
Overview
Born in New Orleans, raised in Chicago, and attending UCLA after a stellar career at Sierra Canyon in Los Angeles, Amari Bailey has blue-chip prospect status. The winner of California’s Mr. Basketball in 2021, a McDonald’s All-American in 2022, and a Pac-12 All-Freshman Team nod for 2022-23 all solidify his reputation. Bailey’s combo-guard skills settled in nicely alongside fellow NBA prospects Jaime Jaquez and Tyger Campbell. Bailey averaged 16.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.7 steals across three NCAA tournament games. Overall, he connected on 49.5% of 9.1 shots per game this season.
Analysis
UCLA boasted a fantastic team, with Jaylen Clark and Adem Bona also representing quality NBA prospects. It was the perfect environment for Bailey to look good. That said, he still flashed a versatile offensive game. Bailey’s comfort in the midrange, above-the-rim athleticism, and solid spot-up shooting is an excellent combination. UCLA’s team context disguised him defensively, but he doesn’t project as a total liability.
Projection
Bailey could settle into the league as a third guard within his first few seasons. His self-creation abilities and size are significant strengths. He declared for the 2023 draft when he could have been a potential lottery pick in 2024. Could he have a late first-round draft promise?
— Profile by RotoWire