The Utah Jazz have selected 18-year-old Ace Bailey with a lottery pick, aiming to tap into his significant potential as a versatile scorer. In 2017, Bailey had an All-American season with the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. He averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per game, while shooting 34.6% from deep. The Jazz are hoping Bailey will develop into a fundamental piece for the franchise.
At 6-foot-8, Bailey’s multifaceted offensive game has scouts drooling, his lethal shooting/scoring ability raising eyebrows to Montana’s best-kept secret. He was extremely talented, but he came under fire during the predraft process, especially for his gusto. Bailey’s decision to refuse workouts for the interested teams sparked questions as to his scoring efficiency, ballhandling and passing ability, defensive effort and overall maturity. Nonetheless, these factors played a role in him landing outside the top three picks in the draft.
After being chosen by Utah, Bailey took to social media to voice his excitement about being selected.
“Just blessed to be in the position I am,” – Bailey
The decision by the Jazz to draft him indicates their belief in his potential to develop into a prolific scorer. The team still believes that Bailey’s wide-ranging skill set can translate and do big things at the pro level. Jazz executive vice president of basketball operations Austin Ainge couldn’t hide his excitement projecting the pick.
“This is a dream scenario for us,” – Austin Ainge
He further emphasized their excitement about Bailey’s character and potential, stating, “These are guys we targeted before the draft with high potential and high character, and we couldn’t be more excited.”
Bailey’s arrival—after a difficult predraft process that had him move from Utah’s junior college football program to an FBS program—begins a new chapter in his life. Even though Utah wasn’t one of his chosen landing spots, he’s still high on his own talents.
“I got great energy,” – Bailey
As he makes the move to the professional ranks, Bailey is committed to quietly establishing himself and earning his place as an impactful play on the court. The Jazz organization is banking on his growth. They are eager to see how he’ll help bring success to their team in the coming seasons.
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