Ace Bailey: “Blessed to Be Here” – Utah Jazz Rookie’s Draft Night, Comments & Early Outlook
Ace Bailey’s NBA Draft journey was one of the most closely watched stories of 2025. Selected fifth overall by the Utah Jazz, the Rutgers standout had previously skipped pre-draft workouts and raised questions about his willingness to go to Utah. But in his first public remarks, he made it clear he is grateful to be where he landed. At the end of the day, Ace Bailey Utah Jazz is a thing.
Draft Night: Surprise Selection & Muted Reaction
Bailey famously declined workouts with teams — even canceling a scheduled visit with the Philadelphia 76ers, who held the No.?3 pick — and reportedly told one top-five team he would not join if selected. As a result, he slipped from a projected No.?3 to No.?5, potentially costing him over $9 million on his rookie contract.
When his name was finally called, his reaction appeared subdued. Video clips captured a young man visibly trying to process that unexpected turn of events.
First Words in Utah: A Clear Message
At his introductory press conference in Salt Lake City on June 29, Bailey addressed loyalties and uncertainty head-on. When asked if he ever considered not reporting to Utah, he said,
“No, not at all… I mean, just blessed to be in this position. Not a lot of people can sit in these chairs and have great teammates… so I’m just blessed to be here.”
His comments were widely covered, including by AP News.
In a follow-up interview, Bailey added that seeing the mountains upon arrival reminded him what this opportunity means: “I didn’t think the mountains was real… it was so beautiful… just meeting the coaches—it was all great,” he said while describing his first moments in Utah. Coverage by KSL.com emphasized how those remarks seemed to quiet early speculation.
Early Days in Utah: Chemistry & Context
Introduced alongside fellow Jazz rookies Walter Clayton Jr. and John Tonje, Bailey arrived in professional surroundings that already show promise. Photos from the press event featured his dog Halo in a Jazz bandana, helping soften earlier doubt about his excitement.
Jazz president Austin Ainge described drafting Bailey as “a dream scenario,” noting the team targeted players with both high character and upside.
What Ace Bailey Brings to the Jazz
- Versatility: A 6’7? wing with the ability to rebound, score, defend, and pass — all traits Utah explicitly values. Bailey averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds in his lone college season at Rutgers.
- Energy & Athleticism: He described himself as someone who brings “great energy” and can contribute in many ways.
- Work Ethic: “I trust my work… countless hours in the gym… I trust my process,” Bailey said, highlighting his mindset.
- Untapped Playmaking: Although not yet a primary handler or creator, his physical growth and on-court instincts suggest that can be developed over time.
Projected Early Role with the Jazz
Initially, Bailey is expected to make immediate contributions in transition, finishing at the rim and playing with toughness on defense. Utah’s coaching staff will likely give him minutes across small forward and power forward, depending on lineups.
While matchups and rotations remain to be seen, early projections see him as a multi-faceted rookie who can impact the game even without heavy playmaking responsibilities. His athletic build and scoring ability give Utah flexibility to integrate him alongside players like Keyonte George, Isaiah Collier, and the other young prospects.
Long-Term Potential: Utah’s Building Block?
If Bailey’s development proceeds smoothly, he could anchor the Jazz’s next competitive era. Refining his ball-handling and decision-making would unlock a higher ceiling, transforming him from a dynamic role player into a featured scorer and possibly an All-Star.
His vocal confidence—backed by a desire to push teammates and be a leader—signals he aspires to be more than just a contributor.
Conclusion
Ace Bailey’s path to Utah was marked by drama, questions, and financial implications. But his simple, repeated statement—being “blessed to be in this position”—shows a young player ready to embrace the opportunity. With versatility, athleticism, and maturity beyond his years, he’s positioned to be a foundational piece for the Jazz moving forward. As summer league begins and his role with the team becomes clearer, fans will soon see if “blessed to be here” translates into performance on the court.
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