Amid controversy, Ace Bailey expresses « sudden » enthusiasm for Utah Jazz
Ace Bailey, selected 5th by the Utah Jazz, claims he never considered forcing a trade. The 18-year-old rookie fully expresses his enthusiasm about joining Utah despite current criticism, particularly regarding his approach to the recent draft.
Jun 25, 2025; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Ace Bailey looks on after being selected as the fifth pick by the Utah in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Photo Credit : © Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Ace Bailey has put an end to speculation about his arrival at the Utah Jazz. During his introductory press conference this Sunday, the 18-year-old wing expressed his satisfaction at being selected 5th in the draft by the Salt Lake City franchise.
« I feel blessed to be in the position I’m in, » Bailey stated, brushing aside questions about any potential reluctance to join Utah.
A controversial draft process that didn’t discourage Utah
Bailey’s path to the NBA wasn’t without controversy. Before the draft, the prospect had canceled a scheduled workout with the Philadelphia 76ers and declined invitations from the Charlotte Hornets and Utah Jazz. According to an ESPN source, Utah wasn’t among his preferred destinations.
This selective approach to the draft process had drawn criticism but didn’t deter Jazz management from using their lottery pick on him. The organization is betting on the 6’8″ player’s potential to develop his prolific scoring abilities.
Austin Ainge, Jazz’s president of basketball operations, didn’t hide his enthusiasm: « This is a dream scenario for us. These are guys we had targeted before the draft with high potential and great character, and we couldn’t be more excited. »
A versatile offensive talent despite some questions
Bailey joins Walter Clayton Jr. (18th pick) and John Tonje (53rd pick) in the Jazz’s rookie class, three players known for their offensive qualities. « These guys can play both sides of the floor, » Ainge emphasized. « We’re looking for the best combination of all possible skills. But yes, these guys know how to score. »
At Rutgers, Bailey posted impressive stats averaging 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds in his lone college season. He demonstrated his offensive versatility by shooting 34.6% from three-point range while dominating in the paint.
« I have great energy, » Bailey explained. « I can do everything from rebounding to defense to scoring and passing. So I can say I can contribute in many different ways. »
Despite his obvious talent, concerns about his offensive efficiency, ball handling, and maturity contributed to his fall outside the top 3. Bailey seems determined to prove the Jazz made the right choice: « I trust my work. I’ve spent countless hours in the gym with everything I do. So I’m confident. Everyone makes mistakes. God didn’t put us here to be perfect. So I trust myself and I trust my process. »
Sylvain Sultat suit la NBA au quotidien, entre performances individuelles, dynamiques collectives et grandes histoires de la ligue. Sur BeBasket, il décrypte l’actualité américaine avec passion et régularité, toujours à l’affût des tendances qui font bouger le monde du basket.
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