The long-awaited moment has finally arrived for basketball fans and players alike. With the No. 5 overall pick in the highly anticipated 2025 NBA Draft, the Utah Jazz have selected Airious ‘Ace’ Bailey, a standout player from Rutgers University. This exciting decision marks a new chapter for the Jazz as they look to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.
During his solitary collegiate season, Bailey showcased his exceptional talent by averaging an impressive 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. His shooting percentages were notable as well, hitting 46% of his overall shots and 34.6% from beyond the arc on approximately 4.5 attempts per game. “When they called my name and I was selected, it was a very emotional time,” Bailey expressed. His heartfelt reaction resonated with many, as he reflected on the sacrifices made by his family to help him reach this pivotal moment in his career.
As Bailey joins the Jazz, he brings with him a wealth of potential. Despite being an extremely raw talent, he possesses a natural scoring ability that sets him apart. His high shooting release allows him to make plays in tight situations, often without the need for a screen to create space. However, as he transitions to the NBA level, Bailey will need to focus on gaining strength and honing his skills to compete effectively. Key areas for improvement include refining his shot selection, enhancing his defensive capabilities, and learning to operate efficiently without the ball.
Bailey is fully aware of the challenges ahead and is eager to embrace the journey. “I feel like I can improve on everything,” he stated confidently. At just 18 years old, he recognizes the vast potential for growth, both physically and mentally. From jump shots to ball handling and overall creativity, Bailey is committed to developing his game and becoming a valuable asset for the Jazz.
The excitement for the Jazz doesn’t stop here. They still have another first-round pick at No. 21, along with two second-round picks to utilize in the ongoing draft. As the night progresses, all eyes will be on the Jazz to see how they continue to build their roster for the future.
In a night filled with talent, the Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spurs made headlines by selecting Cooper Flagg from Duke and Dylan Harper from Rutgers with the first and second picks, respectively. The Philadelphia 76ers followed suit by picking Baylor's VJ Edgecombe with the third pick, while the Charlotte Hornets selected Duke’s Kon Knueppel at pick number four. Each of these selections adds a new layer of excitement to the 2025 NBA Draft, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying season ahead.
