Ace Bailey understands that some negative perceptions followed him during the 2025 NBA Draft process, but those who have worked closely with him describe a much different reality, according to Kevin Reynolds of the Salt Lake Tribune.
Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell strongly supported Bailey’s character, emphasizing his trust in the young forward whenever teams ask about him.
“If anybody calls about Ace Bailey, I f—ing call back right away,” Pikiell said. “I’ve been coaching 42 years, and he’s as good of a kid I’ve had.”
Pikiell also suggested that draft-night narratives may have been shaped partly by teams’ lottery outcomes rather than Bailey’s actual behavior or approach.
Since arriving in Utah, Bailey has made a positive impression within the Jazz organization.
Former teammate Kyle Anderson praised both his personality and development on the court.
“He’s such a great kid, man. Off the court, he’s such a joy. On the court, he’s putting it together,” Anderson said. “I didn’t pay attention to the noise during the draft process, but I’m glad to see that really hasn’t surfaced.”
Jazz head coach Will Hardy said the team is focused on long-term growth rather than encouraging Bailey to chase numbers for attention.
“We want to help him get through this season and be a way better player than when he started,” Hardy said. “I’m not pro Ace just bombing away to get stats and clicks.”
The approach appears effective, as Bailey has averaged 15.0 points and 5.4 rebounds per game since mid-January while continuing to grow into his role with Utah.
Northwest Notes: Bailey, Jazz Fine, Nuggets' Clutch Play, Cissoko https://t.co/GqUtHebk8S pic.twitter.com/KGA194FB6k
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