“Damn he only 6’8. Fs thought he was taller”: Fans react as Rutgers’ Ace Bailey draws comparisons with Jayson Tatum

Could Ace Bailey be the next Jayson Tatum? Draft Express on Instagram is suggesting that could be the case based on their physical similarities. The account posted a graphic on Wednesday comparing Bailey and Tatum's physical attributes ahead of their respective NBA drafts.

The two wings are nearly identical in every category. Tatum was 18 years old when he was selected No. 3 overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2017 NBA draft, while Bailey is currently 18 years old. The Rutgers star is half an inch taller than Tatum was ahead of his draft and weighs just one pound less. Bailey's wingspan and standing reach are both slightly higher than Tatum's.

Fans reacted to the comparison between the two players in the comments. Someone pointed out that they were surprised by Bailey's height.

"Damn he only 6’8. Fs thought he was taller,” one fan said.

An IG user says they thought Bailey was taller than 6'8"

Many Instagram users reminded people that a physical comparison doesn't necessarily mean that the two will have a similar playing style.

"REMEMBER EVERYONE THESE ARE PHYSICAL COMPS NOT PLAY STYLE COMPS," another fan said.

One fan believes that the comparison between Bailey and Tatum is only physical

"PHYSICAL COMPS PEOPLE FOR THE NINTH TIME," one fan commented.

Another IG user points out that this is only a physical comparison

"Physical comp literally just means they find the person most similar in height, weight, reach, etc. These are not player comparisons or future projections. This get confused every time for years now.🤦🏿‍♂️"

A fan says people get confused between physical comparisons and player comparisons

Some shared their opinions on how Bailey and Tatum compare.

"This is actually spot on."

A comment calls the comparison between Bailey and Tatum "spot on"

"Ace will be a better pro. Watch."

An IG user says Bailey will be a better pro than Tatum

"Jumper looks better than Tatum's already😂😂😂."

One comment said Bailey has a better jumper than Tatum

When will Ace Bailey be selected in the 2025 NBA draft?

Ace Bailey is coming off a phenomenal freshman campaign during which he led Rutgers in rebounds (7.2 rpg) and blocks (1.3 bpg). The versatile wing was also second on the team in scoring with 17.6 ppg.

The Scarlet Knights star's diverse skill set and impressive physical attributes make him stand out in this NBA draft. He's capable of playing up to four different positions on the court and uses his size to his advantage. Bailey is an efficient scorer and a strong defender who thrives at forcing turnovers and grabbing defensive boards.

Ace Bailey: Big Ten Conference Tournament First Round, Rutgers vs USC - Source: Imagn

Most mock drafts have Ace Bailey being selected at No. 3 overall to the Philadelphia 76ers. The Rutgers star is comparable to Tatum with his physical attributes and has a skill set that should translate well to the NBA.

About the author

Lindsey Ware is a college sports journalist at Sportskeeda with over five years of experience working with publications such as The News & Observer, The Daily Tar Heel, Triangle Tribune and Cardiac Cane. She has also worked for Major League Baseball, The Holly Springs Salamanders, The Tri-City Chili Peppers, Tuffy Talk, Super Meteors Basketball, Just Good Network and Living Sport.

Lindsey has a Bachelor’s Degree in Media and Journalism from UNC Chapel Hill. Her education allowed Lindsey to gain experience in sports communication, which she honed in internships. Other than being a storyteller and sports fanatic, Lindsey is also a social media and marketing specialist.

Her favorite college team is UNC, although she grew up a N.C. State fan as both of her parents are Wolfpack alumni. Michael Jordan was a huge deal in North Carolina when Lindsey was growing up, and after a summer spent at UNC’s Sports Journalism Camp back in high school, Lindsey was set on being a Tar Heel.

Lindsey's favorite college coach of all time is Roy Williams. During her time attending UNC Chapel Hill and writing for The Daily Tar Heel, Lindsey was lucky enough to meet and speak with Williams a few times. He was like a celebrity on UNC’s campus and was beloved for his coaching style and success with the Tar Heels, accumulating three NCAA championship titles in 18 years.

When not watching or writing about sports, Lindsey enjoys reading, trying new restaurants and coffee shops, and spending time with my friends, family and dog. She also likes to journal, watch movies and paint.

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Edited by John Maxwell