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Ace Bailey was selected 5th overall by the Utah Jazz during the 2025 NBA Draft.
•2025 NBA Draft: Full Coverage•Prospects|Teams|Updates
SALT LAKE CITY (AP)— Although Utah was not typically viewed as one of Ace Bailey’s top choices for launching his NBA career, he made it clear on Sunday that he had no thoughts of holding out or demanding a trade after being selected by the Jazz at No. 5.
Following some criticism regarding his pre-draft strategy, during which he declined to participate in workouts for teams interested in him, Bailey reported to Utah. When questioned at his introductory press conference about the possibility of refusing to join the Jazz, he conveyed his excitement about the opportunity.
“I feel blessed to be in this position,” Bailey stated.
Prior to the draft, Bailey had canceled a planned workout with the Philadelphia 76ers and also turned down workout invitations from both the Charlotte Hornets and the Jazz.
Nevertheless, the Jazz decided to use their lottery selection on him, hoping the 18-year-old will tap into his potential and develop into a high-scoring player.
Alongside Bailey in Utah are No. 18 pick Walter Clayton Jr. and No. 53 pick John Tonje, both of whom are regarded as strong offensive players.
“This is a perfect scenario for us,” said Austin Ainge, the Jazz’s president of basketball operations. “These are the players we targeted before the draft, possessing both high potential and strong character, and we couldn’t be more thrilled.”
Ainge believes that all three newcomers can contribute on both ends of the court.
“These players can defend and score,” Ainge noted. “We are looking for the best blend of skills possible. But yes, these guys certainly know how to put the ball in the basket.”
Ace Bailey’s aspirations materialize as the Utah Jazz choose him with the 5th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Mock drafts frequently listed Bailey as a consensus top-three selection before his slide to the Jazz. The 6-foot-8 forward boasts a diverse offensive skill set. During his time at Rutgers, Bailey demonstrated the ability to shoot off the dribble, hit step-back jumpers, and penetrate the defense.
He averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds in his only season with the Scarlet Knights, showcasing his ability to stretch defenses with a 34.6% shooting rate from three-point range.
“I bring great energy,” Bailey remarked. “I can contribute in many areas—rebounding, defense, scoring, and passing. I believe I can add value in various ways.”
Nonetheless, concerns about his scoring efficiency, ball-handling, passing, defensive vigor, and maturity are factors that led to his drop from the top three. He is motivated to demonstrate that the Jazz made the right decision in selecting him.
“I have faith in my work ethic,” Bailey affirmed. “I’ve devoted countless hours in the gym refining my game. I have confidence in myself. Everyone makes errors; we weren’t placed here to be flawless. So, I trust myself and the process.”
