Player: Ian Bailey
Class: 2026
Height: 6'2
School: Asheville Christian
New names continue to pop up each and every year with Phenom Hoops, and 2026 Ian Bailey is one that should start trending more with what he has shown over the last year. Getting our first viewing last year, he impressed with his feel and impact as a freshman. And he has only continued to elevate and add more to his game, as he has been showcasing his talent early this summer.
Bailey is a 6'2 prospect that is coming off a season in which he led his team in scoring. He has a strong feel as a young prospect, knows and understands how to read and create on the court, is a smart player that plays with tremendous pace, and does a great job in showing his ability to be a scoring impact from multiple levels. Bailey just has a knack for making plays; he does a great job in creating for himself, taking guys off the dribble, is crafty with the ball in his hands, and makes everyone better when he is on the floor. With his size as a guard, and his overall impact as well as his continued development, expect Bailey to start popping up on more radars throughout the state.
What Has Been Said:
'Given the construct of their roster, Bailey consistently finds ways to set the tone as a leader. He scores the ball in a healthy variety of ways. Whether pull-ups, three-pointers, or downhill attacks to the basket, Bailey basically gets whatever he wants offensively. He's an efficient scorer with passing instincts and spot-up ability. Only a freshman, it'll be interesting to see how he progresses going forward.'
'Bailey is a prospect that goes a bit under the radar in the Class of 2026, but he is one that needs to be talked about more. He had a great freshman campaign, as he led the charge for his school and he did so once again. Really like his early feel for the game and his ability to see and create. Was able to score in a variety of ways with nice touch.'
'He's a young, skilled, high-motor wing prospect with great perimeter shooting and penetration ability. Bailey moves well without the ball, displays nice creation instincts, and utilizes his quickness well as an on-ball defender. Coach Harmon on Bailey: 'Ian moves well without the ball on offense. He attacks the basket and can finish with either hand. Must improve transition defense and ability to stop the ball in transition. Ian is a very unselfish player with the ability to shoot the ball well off the bounce or in spot-up situations. He handles the ball well with both hands. Can improve on being in good help-side defense position. Great attitude and willing to make the extra pass. Ian can also work on becoming a better rebounder for his position.'