Ace Bailey walked into his second Summer League game carrying the weight of a forgettable debut. The Utah Jazz’s No. 5 pick had struggled against Philadelphia, managing just 8 points on 3-of-13 shooting. But sometimes the best response to a bad performance is simply showing up and playing better. That’s exactly what Bailey did against Memphis.
How Did Bailey Bounce Back From His Rough Debut?
The second Summer League game was a complete turnaround for Bailey compared to his first appearance. The 18-year-old forward shot 7-of-14 from the field and connected on three of six 3-pointers. He also grabbed seven rebounds and dished out three assists, helping Utah secure a one-point victory over the Memphis Grizzlies in Salt Lake City.
Bailey’s 18-point performance was the deciding factor in the Jazz’s narrow win. The NBA’s official Twitter account highlighted his stat line: “No. 5 pick Ace Bailey was impressive in the @utahjazz Salt Lake City Summer League W: 18 PTS, 7 REB, 3 AST, 3 3PM.”
No. 5 pick Ace Bailey was impressive in the @utahjazz Salt Lake City Summer League W 🙌
18 PTS
7 REB
3 AST
3 3PM pic.twitter.com/AYYuqJcZ75— NBA (@NBA) July 8, 2025
Bailey showed his versatility by scoring in multiple ways throughout the game. He displayed his three-point shooting ability with a quick-release shot without bringing the ball down. The former Rutgers standout also showcased his athleticism with a thunderous alley-oop dunk off a perfect pass from Isaiah Collier.
What Are Fans Saying About Bailey’s Performance?
Social media lit up with praise for Bailey following his performance against Memphis. Fans were quick to make comparisons to NBA legends, showing their excitement about what they witnessed.
“He looked like Chris Bosh,” one impressed observer noted, drawing parallels between Bailey’s smooth left-handed shooting stroke and the former All-Star’s versatile offensive arsenal.
He looked like Chris Bosh
— Johnny Dubs (@Johnnydubs07) July 8, 2025
Another fan commented, “stepback midi fadeaway so cleannnnnnnnnnnn,” with the extended letters showing just how effortless Bailey’s contested mid-range jumper appeared.
The Tracy McGrady comparisons also started flowing. “Mannn this guy kinda reminds me of T-Mac, man Jazz got a killer yo,” a third supporter said, comparing Bailey’s fluid athleticism and three-level scoring ability to McGrady’s prime years.
Mannn this guy kinda reminds me of tmac , man Jazz got a killer yo
— StayFocus tmc🏁🏁🏁 (@zwayneydan19) July 8, 2025
One user pointed out, “almost had that double double,” highlighting how Bailey’s 18 points and seven rebounds nearly reached double figures in both categories.
The reactions show genuine excitement about Bailey’s improvement after a challenging debut. Fans are recognizing the No. 5 pick’s potential to become an important player for Utah’s future, especially after seeing him bounce back so convincingly from his first game struggles.
