In an intriguing twist leading up to the NBA Draft, Ace Bailey’s representatives urged a team with a top-five pick not to select the Rutgers wing, indicating that Bailey would not join the organization if drafted. This information was revealed by ESPN’s Jonathan Givony and Tim Bontemps, who did not specify which team Bailey’s camp was wary of.
Ultimately, the Utah Jazz selected Bailey with the No. 5 overall pick, despite his hesitations. Jazz president of basketball operations Austin Ainge expressed enthusiasm about securing a talent like Bailey, emphasizing not only his impressive scoring ability but also his defensive skills and rebounding capabilities. “He’s great,” Ainge noted, highlighting Bailey’s joy and energy for the game which have impressed scouts and analysts alike.
Bailey, who is joining a young and dynamic Jazz roster alongside Florida’s reigning national champion Walter Clayton Jr., acknowledged the excitement of being part of a youthful team where everyone has plenty to learn. Reflecting on moving to Utah, he humorously remarked about the climate, mentioning the need for a good heater given the state’s varying temperatures.
In the context of the draft, notable picks include Cooper Flagg going to the Dallas Mavericks as the youngest No. 1 pick since LeBron James in 2003, and Bailey’s Rutgers teammate Dylan Harper selected by the San Antonio Spurs at No. 2. Bailey was unique among U.S. prospects for not conducting any individual team workouts leading up to the draft, a decision defended by his agent who stated that this approach is not uncommon in the NBA.
As the Jazz embrace their fresh talent, the potential for Bailey to thrive alongside fellow young athletes creates an optimistic outlook for the team’s future. The Jazz and their fans are undoubtedly hopeful that Bailey’s skill set will flourish in the upcoming season.