Following reports that he was displeased about landing with the Utah Jazz at No. 5 in the 2025 NBA Draft, Ace Bailey flipped the narrative. During Sunday’s introductory press conference, the offensive-minded forward expressed gratitude for his opportunity and boldly outlined how his skill set will translate to his new home.
Bailey took center stage during the pre-draft process for his reported refusal to work out for any teams in hopes of falling to the six-to-eight range on draft night. He and his camp’s efforts proved futile, as the league-worst Jazz (17-65), in dire need of a young star, gambled on his potential at No. 5.
After initially appearing disheartened by his draft selection, reports emerged that Bailey could hold out from the franchise. However, following his arrival in Utah, the 2025 All-Big Ten third team selectee attempted to put the controversy behind him.
Ace Bailey Offers Fans Glimpse of What’s Ahead
Upon being introduced by Utah, Bailey was asked whether he had given serious consideration to not reporting to the team. The 18-year-old quickly shifted the focus to his contentment to be in Salt Lake City.
“Just blessed to be in the position I am,” Bailey said.
Bailey, a 6-foot-8 tough shot maker who was considered a near-consensus top-three prospect before his draft stock slipped, then previewed what he brings to the table.
“I got great energy,” Bailey said. “I can do everything from rebounding to defense to scoring to passing. So, I can say I can bring it a lot in different ways.”
While Bailey appears confident in his two-way abilities, draft experts pegged his defense, playmaking, and shot selection as areas of concern entering the draft. Nevertheless, he appears poised to maximize his potential, as he also called attention to his disciplined work ethic, likely increasing Jazz fans’ optimism.
“I trust my work,” Bailey said. “I [put in] countless hours in the gym with everything that I do. So, I trust it. Everybody makes mistakes. God didn’t put us here to be perfect. So, I just trust myself and just trust my process.”
Over 30 contests at Rutgers, Bailey averaged 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.0 steals, 1.3 blocks, and 1.6 3-pointers per game, shooting 46.0%.
Echoing his apparent excitement, Utah president of basketball operations Austin Ainge raved about the fits of Bailey, No. 18 pick Walter Clayton Jr., and No. 53 pick John Tonje.
“These are guys we targeted before the draft with high potential and high character, and we couldn’t be more excited,” Ainge said.
Ainge added that all three are talented, versatile prospects who could raise the organization’s offensive ceiling.
Ace Bailey, Walter Clayton Jr., John Tonje are all in #Utah and eager to start playing https://t.co/AWX824u8bq
— Utah News Tweets (@Utah_Newspapers) June 30, 2025
“These guys can play on both ends,” Ainge said. “We’re looking for the best combination of all the skills we can. But, yeah, these guys can put the ball in the hole.”
Bailey should be primed for a considerable offensive role for a Jazz squad that appeared directionless leading into the draft. If his scoring prowess carries over and he makes strides as a passer and defender, he could blossom into a franchise player.
