Ace Bailey Heads to Utah: Surprise Pick Caps Tumultuous Pre-Draft
The 2025 NBA Draft delivered its share of unexpected moments, but few garnered as much attention as the Utah Jazz selecting former Rutgers standout Ace Bailey with the fifth overall pick. While viral reactions suggested potential disappointment, the reality of Bailey’s draft night emotions appears more nuanced, centered around the shared journey with his Rutgers teammate.
Bailey, an 18-year-old highly-touted prospect, openly admitted his selection by the Jazz at No. 5 was a surprise, stating he “had no idea” the team had significant interest beforehand. Despite the initial unexpectedness, Bailey quickly embraced the moment, describing being drafted as a “blessing” and the culmination of immense “hard work, sacrifice, the blood, the sweat, the tears” from himself and his family. “The little kid in me is just smiling hard right now,” he shared after his name was called at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
The emotional reaction that garnered significant attention on social media wasn’t primarily about his own selection or destination, but rather his profound joy and near-tears upon hearing his Rutgers teammate, Dylan Harper, selected just three picks earlier at No. 2 by the San Antonio Spurs. Bailey described Harper as a “brother” and felt his teammate’s call as deeply as his own.
Navigating Pre-Draft Intrigue and Preferences
Bailey’s path to the draft was marked by considerable intrigue and scrutiny. Unlike many prospects, his camp, led by agent Omar Cooper, reportedly made the unusual decision to not participate in private workouts with NBA teams and even cancelled a scheduled visit with the Philadelphia 76ers, who held the No. 3 pick. This strategy seemed designed to influence his draft destination, with reports circulating that Bailey or his representatives preferred landing spots like Washington, Brooklyn, or New Orleans.
Despite the lack of direct interaction and some pre-draft concerns that arose after the NBA Combine – including questions about his official height (6-foot-7 without shoes vs. his listed 6-foot-10 at Rutgers), his weight gain progress, and the Rutgers team’s struggles despite having two lottery talents – the Jazz, under the leadership of CEO Danny Ainge and President of Basketball Operations Austin Ainge, were clearly impressed by Bailey’s unique attributes. His exceptional shotmaking ability, significant impact potential driven by a reported 7-foot wingspan, and undeniable athleticism were valued highly enough for Utah to make him their “big swing” at No. 5.
Potential and Areas for Growth
Scouts and analysts widely acknowledge the immense potential packed into the 6-foot-8 swingman. His physical tools and creative scoring ability from all three levels have drawn comparisons to versatile wings like Kevin Durant or Paul George. In his lone season at Rutgers, Bailey averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds, showcasing flashes of brilliance in standout performances.
However, his draft profile also includes acknowledged areas for development. Concerns have been raised about his shot selection, defensive positioning (particularly in pick-and-roll coverage), overall efficiency, ballhandling, and playmaking instincts. While capable of impressive rebounding using his length, consistency in this area was also noted. ESPN analyst Jay Bilas highlighted his talent and athleticism but pointed to decision-making and free-throw shooting as areas needing refinement.
Bailey himself has reportedly been working to address some of these physical concerns, adding muscle and now weighing between 215-220 pounds to prepare for the physicality of the NBA.
Looking Ahead to Utah
Though he admitted to having limited prior knowledge of Salt Lake City and the Jazz franchise history (beyond acknowledging legends like Stockton and Malone), Bailey expressed adaptability, noting his experience with both cold climates (New Jersey) and heat (the South). He views his arrival in Utah as requiring “a lot of work,” a challenge that aligns with his self-described nature as someone who “likes to work out a lot.”
Joining a young Jazz core, Bailey is eager to contribute his energy and versatility. He expressed a desire to push his new teammates and aspires to “come in and be a leader as a young cat.” He will also reunite with a familiar face in Isaiah Collier, a former high school opponent drafted by the Jazz the previous year.
For Bailey, the overwhelming feeling post-draft is one of relief. The tumultuous pre-draft process, filled with anxiety, travel, and scrutiny, is over. “I’m glad it’s over,” he stated, ready to shift his focus entirely to playing basketball and beginning his NBA journey with the Utah Jazz.
