Ace Bailey’s NBA Journey Takes a Clear Path

The Ace Bailey saga appears to be settling down.

Following various reports and speculation surrounding five picks in the 2025 NBA Draft, the former Rutgers standout is set to report to the Utah Jazz.

“We’ve maintained solid communication with Ace Bailey and his representative,” a Jazz spokesperson shared. “Everything seems positive. Ace and his family will arrive in Utah tomorrow.”

Bailey’s journey to being drafted saw him navigating training sessions, all while emphasizing a preferred destination for his new team.

Even with his stated preferences, the Jazz chose not to overlook his talent, selecting him with that pick. This raised questions about whether Bailey might try to assert more control over his situation moving forward.

Join the wave of excitement, as Walter Clayton Jr., who was also picked in the first round, traveled to Utah on Thursday. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst mentioned that Bailey has had “minimal contact” with the team, which might imply he hasn’t officially checked in yet.

His agent, Omar Cooper—who also represents 2021 Round 2 Pick Sharif Cooper—has come under scrutiny regarding the security guard situation surrounding Bailey.

Cooper clarified this week that Bailey’s circumstances are not “unusual.” He noted, “All NBA teams observed his training in Chicago. He completed 18 interviews. Medical evaluations were conducted, and they measured his performance. This is typical for an athlete like Ace during the pre-draft phase.”

On another note, Andrew Wittreeb expressed excitement about Bailey’s prospects in Utah, saying, “I think it’s a fantastic fit for his game.” He also hinted at some of the pre-draft preferences Bailey’s camp conveyed.

“This strategy was largely directed by his long-time manager, Omar Cooper, who shares our vision,” Wittreeb noted. “Omar prioritized finding a fit rather than just going for the highest pick. He wanted Ace to be in a situation conducive to his development, and I believe Utah is a stellar choice.”

Despite being considered the third-ranked prospect in the draft, Bailey canceled his workout with the 76ers, who held the third pick, seeking a clearer route toward stardom.

In statements, Bailey has remained focused on the game ahead and expressed genuine excitement about moving to Utah after the draft. “It was an excellent choice, and I realize it’s time to get to work once I arrive,” he remarked when discussing his conversation with Utah’s basketball operations president, Austin Ainge.