Ace Bailey stepped onto the NBA Draft stage, aiming to project ease and confidence.
“Just play basketball. Wherever you go, just hoop.”
But despite his composure, the night exposed the high-stakes risk of his pre-draft strategy. With the Utah Jazz on the clock at No. 5, Bailey’s plan unraveled dramatically.
For weeks, one narrative dominated draft buzz: where Ace wouldn’t be going.
He skipped workouts and cancelled interviews-including one with the Philadelphia 76ers at No. 3, sparking speculation that his camp had assured him of selection by another franchise, reportedly Washington.
Jake Fischer’s tweet confirmed it: “There is no trade. Ace Bailey to the Utah Jazz at No. 5…”
A startling moment for pick No. 5
When Jonathan Givony casually reported on ESPN, “This was not one of his preferred destinations… hoping to get to either Washington, New Orleans, or Brooklyn,” the gamble had officially crashed.
The camera caught Bailey, expression muted. Later, he reflected, “I control what I control… just me, focusing on the basketball…”
Though he remained polite, many noted his discomfort. On X, @WizardsMuse1 remarked:
“ace bailey looks like hes about to cry after being drafted by the jazz”.
Yet this unexpected twist may turn into something valuable for both parties. Givony urged perspective:
“This is an outstanding place for Ace Bailey. They have a wide-open wing situation… outstanding coaching staff. I think Ace Bailey is going to recover from this very quickly…”
Indeed, the Jazz, still rebuilding around Lauri Markkanen, John Collins and Walker Kessler, offered a promising oncourt environment. Bailey’s scoring ability and shot creation fill a glaring roster need.
Further context from Bleacher Report’s Shams Charania and Givony suggested Bailey may have received verbal assurances that inflated expectations. He didn’t just skip the Sixers; he’s reported to have refused workouts from multiple teams thinking he’d slide to a more desirable spot.
Even so, Utah‘s leadership moved past reported concerns. Jazz CEO Danny Ainge selected Bailey, undeterred by his pre-draft positioning.
TheScore’s profile adds depth: Bailey measured in shorter than expected at the combine, and while his collegiate shot-making impressed, his playmaking and defense raised questions. Utah seems comfortable cultivating his strengths while developing the less-polished aspects.
Despite potential friction, elite voices in the basketball world have praised Bailey‘s talent. Kevin Durant compared him to himself in shooting prowess, saying, “It’s insane the shots he can make… He’s a problem.”
Prior work with Giannis Antetokounmpo also showcased his veteran readiness. Bailey responded with humility: “That’s hard… Hearing that from KD… is just like a blessing.”
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