June 26, 2025 — Brooklyn, NY — In one of the most surprising and controversial moments of the 2025 NBA Draft, the Utah Jazz selected Rutgers freshman wing Ace Bailey with the No. 5 overall pick, despite reports that Bailey’s camp had explicitly warned at least one top-five team not to draft him.
According to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony and Tim Bontemps, Bailey’s representatives informed a team within the top five that the former Scarlet Knight would not report to their organization if selected. While the report did not specify which team was advised to pass, the Jazz moved forward with their selection — making a bold statement under the franchise’s new front office regime.
Utah’s newly appointed president of basketball operations, Austin Ainge, addressed the media following the pick and made it clear the team wasn’t deterred by any pre-draft posturing.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to add a player of Ace Bailey’s caliber to our roster,” Ainge said. “He’s one of the most explosive and versatile wings in this class. We did our homework, and we believe Utah is the right place for him to grow and thrive.”
Bailey, a consensus top-tier prospect throughout the year, averaged 17.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in his lone season at Rutgers. Known for his high-flying athleticism, two-way potential, and elite shot-creating upside, Bailey had been projected as high as No. 2 on many draft boards.
However, questions around his willingness to join certain rebuilding franchises — and a rumored preference for larger markets — began circulating in the days leading up to the draft. His representation’s preemptive warning added fuel to that speculation.
The Jazz, who entered the lottery tied for the best odds at the No. 1 pick, slipped to fifth in the draft order. Still, Ainge and head coach Will Hardy clearly see Bailey as a foundational piece moving forward.
“We see him as a long-term difference maker,” said Hardy. “We’re building something special in Utah, and Ace fits that vision.”
Whether Bailey embraces Salt Lake City remains to be seen. As of Thursday morning, his camp has not publicly commented on the Jazz’s decision or his intent to report.
The development marks the second straight year a top-five pick has involved questions about player-team alignment, following similar uncertainty around Bronny James’ pre-draft interviews in 2024.
Next Steps:
All eyes now turn to Bailey’s introduction press conference, expected later this week. If he does report and signs his rookie deal, Bailey will join a young core that includes Keyonte George, Walker Kessler, and Taylor Hendricks — giving Utah one of the most intriguing youth movements in the league.
Stay with us for updates on Bailey’s response, Summer League participation, and the Jazz’s offseason plans.
