Ace Bailey vs. Michael Porter Jr.: Player comparison, college stats and more
Though it’s early in the 2024-2025 season, Ace Bailey, the star freshman at Rutgers, is already drawing comparisons to NBA players like Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Grizzlies and Jabari Smith Jr. of the Rockets.
However, the most striking comparison has been with Michael Porter Jr., the NBA champion from the Denver Nuggets.
Despite both players still being relatively young, there are clear parallels and contrasts between their statistics, playstyles, and achievements.
Here's a closer look at what makes these two players both alike and different.
Height and Position
Michael Porter Jr. stands at 6-foot-10 and typically plays as a small forward, though his size and shooting range allow him to stretch to power forward as well.
Ace Bailey, who is also 6-foot-10, is primarily listed as a shooting guard and small forward, but his athleticism enables him to guard multiple positions, resembling a hybrid wing/stretch forward role.
Playstyle
"MPJ" is renowned for his elite shooting – particularly from beyond the arc – and his ability to score at all three levels. His style is more finesse-based, with a focus on offensive efficiency, though his defense has often been inconsistent.
In contrast, Bailey is considered a more versatile scorer, excelling in transition and around the rim. His play style is more physical, featuring a slashing approach with a growing shooting game. Additionally, Bailey’s defensive capabilities — especially as a weak-side shot blocker — are notable strengths.
College Career
Michael Porter Jr. had a brief college career at Missouri, playing just three games in 2017-18 due to a back injury. Despite the limited time, Porter averaged 10 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.0 steals per game, though his shooting was below expectations — 33.3% from the field and 30% from 3-point range.
On the other hand, Ace Bailey is currently a freshman at Rutgers, with high expectations ahead of the 2025 NBA draft. After three games, Bailey averages 19.0 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 1.0 bpg and 1.0 spg. His shooting numbers are strong at 47.6% from the field and 41.2% from beyond the arc, which suggests a solid offensive start to his collegiate career.
Scoring and Passing
Porter Jr. relies heavily on his scoring ability, particularly his shooting, in isolation and catch-and-shoot situations. While not known for his passing, Porter operates effectively as a secondary or tertiary scoring option.
In contrast, Bailey offers more offensive versatility, creating plays off the dribble and scoring in transition. Though his passing is decent for his position, it’s not considered a primary strength, with Bailey’s athleticism and scoring ability being the main focus.
High School Stats and Achievements
During his senior year at Nathan Hale High School in Seattle, Porter Jr. averaged 36.2 ppg and 13.6 rpg, demonstrating his scoring prowess and dominance on the boards. He led Nathan Hale to an undefeated 29-0 record and a state championship, earning Gatorade National Player of the Year honors. Additionally, Porter was ranked as the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2017 class.
On the other hand, during his senior year at McEachern High School in Georgia, Bailey averaged 33.4 ppg, 15.5 rpg, 3.9 apg and 2.9 bpg. Bailey’s all-around game and dominance were evident, and he was ranked the No. 2 overall prospect in the 2024 class by recruiting services like 247Sports.
Summary
Michael Porter Jr. and Ace Bailey share a similar height and positional versatility, but their careers have diverged. "MPJ" has evolved into a dependable NBA player known for his shooting and scoring ability, whereas Bailey is a high-potential prospect with more athleticism and slashing skills.
Bailey's defensive versatility perhaps gives him the edge in terms of all-around potential, positioning him as a player with an exciting future ahead.