Ace Bailey didn’t expect to hear his name called by the Utah Jazz. But on Wednesday night, the 18-year-old forward out of Rutgers went No. 5 overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, ending a pre-draft saga that left executives, fans, and even Bailey himself surprised.
The 6-foot-10 wing became one of the most polarizing names in this year’s class after canceling workouts with top teams and reportedly expressing interest in landing outside the top five. His camp is said to have aimed for a different destination, Washington, New Orleans, or Brooklyn. But the Jazz, despite not hosting him for a private workout, made the call.
Bailey, who averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds in his college season, now joins a rebuilding Jazz squad that finished last in the NBA standings with a 17-65 record.
Jazz Were High on Ace Bailey Despite Pre-Draft Fiasco
Bailey admitted he had no idea Utah was even considering him.
“No idea,” he said, when asked if the Jazz ever expressed interest. His camp had reportedly hoped to fall to the No. 6-8 range, where teams like the Wizards and Nets were positioned.
Even more astonishing, Utah didn’t hold a private workout with Bailey, but team president Austin Ainge told ESPN they were confident in the pick after scouting him extensively. “We really like him as a player, and a fit in our program,” Ainge said.
On Wednesday night at Barclays Center, Bailey said, “I can control what I can control. They feel how they feel.” Even so, he showed no signs of frustration when speaking to the media.
Ace Bailey on going to Utah:
“I can control what I can control. They feel how they feel. But my team and me, me focusing on basketball and them doing what they’re doing, so it happens” pic.twitter.com/aHkz7QFBVR
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) June 26, 2025
“I’m glad it’s over,” Bailey said. “I’m ready to play some basketball now. It’s just been a great journey. Me working hard, pushing myself physically and mentally, just getting prepared for the next level.”
He called being drafted a “blessing” and credited his family for the sacrifices that made the moment possible. “The little kid in me is smiling hard right now,” he said. “The blood, the sweat, the tears, not just from me, but my family put into this.”
Bailey, whose first name is Airious, acknowledged that he doesn’t know much about Utah yet, but said he’s open to learning. “I know it gets cold and hot up there. I’m used to the cold from Jersey and the heat from the South. I can get along with it.”
Utah Jazz Banking on Bailey’s Upside
Despite the uncertainty leading into the draft, Bailey lands in a situation where he could contribute immediately. The Jazz have a clear need for offense, finishing 21st in scoring last season. As a long, athletic wing with scoring upside, Bailey fills that gap.
Utah president of basketball operations Austin Ainge confirmed Bailey didn’t work out for the team but said the front office remained high on him after interviews at the combine. “He was super excited. We’re super excited. We’re expecting a very bright future,” Ainge said.
Bailey said he’s focused on becoming a leader, “I feel like I’m a person that likes to work out a lot. I’m going to push my teammates to be the best they can be. I want to come in and be a leader as a young cat.”
