Ace Bailey isn’t setting modest goals ahead of his first NBA season. The Utah Jazz rookie made it clear: he’s aiming for an All-Star nod right away.
“I definitely want to be an All-Star my rookie year,” Bailey told The Athletic’s Mike Vorkunov. “I want to do a lot.”
Selected No. 5 overall by Utah in the 2025 NBA Draft, Bailey enters a rebuilding team that finished last in the Western Conference at 17–65. With minimal veteran structure and one of the league’s youngest rosters, the 6-foot-9 forward is expected to play a significant role immediately.
Bailey averaged 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks during his freshman season at Rutgers. He shot 46% from the field and started all 30 games for the Scarlet Knights.
While the Jazz endured a challenging season defensively, giving up a league-worst 121.2 points per game, Bailey’s size and athleticism on the wing offer promise on both ends of the floor. His ability to defend multiple positions and stretch the floor adds versatility to Utah’s frontcourt.
“I fit in good because we all young, so we all got a lot to learn,” Bailey said. “We can play with each other, get to know each other, how we play, how we fit in, what works.”
The Jazz also added Will Riley at No. 21 and Jamir Watkins at No. 43, reinforcing the youth movement. With limited expectations for immediate team success, the environment may allow Bailey the on-court freedom to post big numbers — a potential factor in individual awards like Rookie of the Year.
“I definitely want to win Rookie of the Year,” Bailey added, signaling his desire to compete with top picks Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and V.J. Edgecombe.
Utah hasn’t had an All-Star since Lauri Markkanen in 2023. Bailey’s goal of breaking into the February showcase would make him the franchise’s first rookie All-Star since Darrell Griffith in 1981.
Off the court, the 19-year-old is still adjusting to Salt Lake City’s climate. “I don’t know a lot about Utah, but I’m learning as we go,” he said. “It get cold and it get hot here. Gotta find me a place with a good heater.”
