Ace Bailey, the talented forward from Rutgers University, became the fifth overall pick in the recent NBA Draft, selected by the Utah Jazz. This decision followed a series of bizarre occurrences throughout the draft process. These early camp fizzles raised concerns about his desire to play for whatever team decided to pick him.
Additionally, Bailey’s representatives communicated strongly to at least one other top five team that they did not want him selected by that team. They delivered the message in no uncertain terms. They went even further — suggesting that Bailey would refuse to serve in their branch if they selected him. This resulted in a few days of speculation as to if he was going to actually show up to the Jazz after being drafted.
Against all odds, and throughout these bizarre situations, Bailey ended up agreeing without harm to sign with the Jazz. He’ll likely be battling for a starting role in head coach Will Hardy’s regular rotation. There’s no questioning Bailey’s transcendent production in college. He averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds at Rutgers, showing enough flashes of his potential to suggest that he can be a bully in the NBA.
The Jazz selected Bailey with their first pick in the first draft largely controlled by newly minted president of basketball operations Austin Ainge. The team’s first-round decision to pick Bailey was a testament to their belief that he can make an immediate impact and flourish in their unconventional line up. Bailey hit the ground running, earning a starting spot for the Jazz in summer league play. This immersive experience gave him the opportunity to get fully acclimated to the team and showcase his skills.
Bailey’s path to the pros started at Montverde Academy in Florida. He proved his talent and toughness at Rutgers, and he’s proving it still in the NBA. Some analysts had Bailey floated even higher as a potential selection to the Washington Wizards, who had pick number six. His ultimate pick by the Jazz makes him one of the great values and one of the best strategic picks that franchise could’ve made.
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