The NBA recently revealed the roster for the 2026 Castrol Rising Stars Rookies, and a notable omission has stirred conversations among fans and analysts: Ace Bailey. After proving himself on the court, especially during a stretch without Lauri Markkanen, Bailey’s absence from the list is frustrating, particularly given his impressive performance over the last seven games, where he averaged 15.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists while shooting 48% from the field.
Bailey, who has mainly been relegated to a supporting role with the Jazz, has shown flashes of potential that suggest he could be a key player for the team’s future. His consistent improvement could have been even more pronounced if the team had prioritized his development earlier in the season. Compounding the disappointment, Walter Clayton Jr. also missed a spot on the Rising Stars team, which was expected given his limited playing time compared to Bailey.
The snubs didn’t end with Bailey and Clayton; Jazz players Cody Williams, Isaiah Collier, and Kyle Filipowski were overlooked for the sophomore team as well. However, the most surprising aspect is that Cody Williams, who has recently showcased an uptick in his performance, was not recognized. In his last ten games, Williams started averaging 9.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists with impressive shooting stats of 53% from the field and 35% from three-point range. These improved numbers contrast sharply with the challenges he faced during his rookie season.
While it might seem like a minor issue, these omissions weigh heavily on the players, who closely monitor such recognitions. The Jazz organization has an opportunity for reflection, particularly regarding its rotation strategy that has seen younger players like Bailey and Williams overshadowed by veterans. This pattern can hinder the development of their promising talents.
Despite the missed recognition this year, it is likely that Bailey’s trajectory will lead him to the Rising Stars roster next season. His recent performances have shown that he has the potential to be a cornerstone for the franchise going forward, even if this season’s setbacks are a difficult pill to swallow. The Jazz may need to re-evaluate their approach moving forward to ensure that their burgeoning stars receive the attention and opportunities they deserve.