Ace Bailey: “Blessed to Be Right here” – Utah Jazz Rookie’s Draft Night time, Feedback & Early Outlook
Ace Bailey’s NBA Draft journey was one of the vital intently watched tales of 2025. Chosen fifth total by the Utah Jazz, the Rutgers standout had beforehand skipped pre-draft exercises and raised questions on his willingness to go to Utah. However in his first public remarks, he made it clear he’s grateful to be the place he landed. On the finish of the day, Ace Bailey Utah Jazz is a factor.
Draft Night time: Shock Choice & Muted Response
Bailey famously declined exercises with groups — even canceling a scheduled go to with the Philadelphia 76ers, who held the No.?3 decide — and reportedly advised one top-five workforce he wouldn’t be part of if chosen. Because of this, he slipped from a projected No.?3 to No.?5, doubtlessly costing him over $9 million on his rookie contract.
When his identify was lastly referred to as, his response appeared subdued. Video clips captured a younger man visibly making an attempt to course of that surprising flip of occasions.
First Phrases in Utah: A Clear Message
At his introductory press convention in Salt Lake Metropolis on June 29, Bailey addressed loyalties and uncertainty head-on. When requested if he ever thought-about not reporting to Utah, he mentioned,
“No, by no means… I imply, simply blessed to be on this place. Not lots of people can sit in these chairs and have nice teammates… so I’m simply blessed to be right here.”
His feedback have been broadly lined, together with by AP Information.
In a follow-up interview, Bailey added that seeing the mountains upon arrival reminded him what this chance means: “I didn’t assume the mountains was actual… it was so lovely… simply assembly the coaches—it was all nice,” he mentioned whereas describing his first moments in Utah. Protection by KSL.com emphasised how these remarks appeared to quiet early hypothesis.
Early Days in Utah: Chemistry & Context
Launched alongside fellow Jazz rookies Walter Clayton Jr. and John Tonje, Bailey arrived in skilled environment that already present promise. Images from the press occasion featured his canine Halo in a Jazz bandana, serving to soften earlier doubt about his pleasure.
Jazz president Austin Ainge described drafting Bailey as “a dream situation,” noting the workforce focused gamers with each excessive character and upside.
What Ace Bailey Brings to the Jazz
Versatility: A 6’7? wing with the flexibility to rebound, rating, defend, and go — all traits Utah explicitly values. Bailey averaged 17.6 factors and seven.2 rebounds in his lone faculty season at Rutgers.
Power & Athleticism: He described himself as somebody who brings “nice power” and might contribute in some ways.
Work Ethic: “I belief my work… numerous hours within the health club… I belief my course of,” Bailey mentioned, highlighting his mindset.
Untapped Playmaking: Though not but a major handler or creator, his bodily development and on-court instincts recommend that may be developed over time.
Projected Early Function with the Jazz
Initially, Bailey is predicted to make instant contributions in transition, ending on the rim and enjoying with toughness on protection. Utah’s teaching workers will seemingly give him minutes throughout small ahead and energy ahead, relying on lineups.
Whereas matchups and rotations stay to be seen, early projections see him as a multi-faceted rookie who can impression the sport even with out heavy playmaking tasks. His athletic construct and scoring means give Utah flexibility to combine him alongside gamers like Keyonte George, Isaiah Collier, and the opposite younger prospects.
Lengthy-Time period Potential: Utah’s Constructing Block?
If Bailey’s improvement proceeds easily, he may anchor the Jazz’s subsequent aggressive period. Refining his ball-handling and decision-making would unlock the next ceiling, remodeling him from a dynamic position participant right into a featured scorer and probably an All-Star.
His vocal confidence—backed by a need to push teammates and be a pacesetter—indicators he aspires to be greater than only a contributor.
Conclusion
Ace Bailey’s path to Utah was marked by drama, questions, and monetary implications. However his easy, repeated assertion—being “blessed to be on this place”—reveals a younger participant able to embrace the chance. With versatility, athleticism, and maturity past his years, he’s positioned to be a foundational piece for the Jazz transferring ahead. As summer time league begins and his position with the workforce turns into clearer, followers will quickly see if “blessed to be right here” interprets into efficiency on the courtroom.
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