Ace Bailey: Beyond the Hype, A Rising Star’s Journey

On one of his first NBA road trips, the 6’9″ future of the Utah Jazz, Ace Bailey, indulged in a familiar comfort: McDonald’s. The 19-year-old phenom, known for his silky smooth shot, admits to a fondness for fast food, citing Waffle House and the Golden Arches as go-to spots. While diet wasn’t initially a concern given his age and athleticism, a team of seasoned veterans quickly set him straight. “They’re like, ‘No, eating that stuff is not gonna help you,’” Bailey recalls. “Honestly, coming into the NBA, it’s more than I expected, mostly off the court adjustments. Because all eyes are on you, everywhere you go.”

From Can’t-Miss Prospect to Draft Day Drama

This summer, when the Utah Jazz drafted Bailey fifth overall, a wave of expectation washed over the young player. For years, he’d been the ‘can’t-miss’ prospect. By 14, he stood 6’4” and dominated the youth circuit. His scoring prowess drew comparisons to Kevin Durant even before high school. He lit up college basketball, scoring 39 points at Indiana’s Assembly Hall and 37 against Northwestern.

However, days before the draft, controversy erupted. Reports surfaced that Bailey didn’t want to play for certain teams, including the Jazz, causing him to slip on draft boards. Fans quickly formed opinions – some labeling him a diva, others predicting immediate All-Star status. “Having that responsibility is amazing, but it also can be a lot,” Bailey admits, caught in the crossfire of these expectations.

Navigating Expectations and Finding His Footing

Since entering the league, Bailey has been navigating this complex landscape. On the court, he’s shown promise, averaging 11 points as a developing third option. Off the court, teammates praise his character, but reshaping public perception takes time. So, who is the real Ace Bailey? He’s still figuring that out.

“People shouldn’t make assumptions, but that’s hard to do in the world we live in,” says teammate Kevin Love. “Just get to know him. Ace Bailey is great.”

A Coach’s Perspective: The Rutgers Years

Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell, who coached Bailey last year, holds him in high regard. “If anybody calls about Ace Bailey, I f—ing call back right away,” Pikiell states. “I’ve been coaching 42 years, and he’s as good of a kid I’ve had.” However, the draft process raised concerns. Reports suggested Bailey’s agent, Omar Cooper, was actively discouraging teams picking in the top five from drafting him, hoping for a more favorable landing spot in Washington, New Orleans, or Brooklyn.

Cooper allegedly canceled workouts with teams like the 76ers and the Jazz to dissuade them. This led to criticism from NBA players like Paul George and Draymond Green, who questioned Bailey’s character. But those who knew him best painted a different picture.

Rebuilding Trust and Embracing the Jazz

Dylan Harper, Bailey’s former teammate at Rutgers, defends his character. “He’s funny and goofy. Never runs out of energy,” Harper says. He believes the early narrative was unfair. Bailey himself doesn’t regret the process, stating, “The goal was to be here.” He parted ways with Cooper in September, seeking more experienced representation.

Upon arriving in Utah, Bailey focused on proving himself through his work ethic. He made an effort to connect with the organization, demonstrating his commitment. “You can only do so much. But just be who you are,” Bailey said. “Every day give your best effort and it shouldn’t be a problem.”

Growth and Future Potential

Head coach Will Hardy has encouraged Bailey to focus on making the right reads and building good habits, rather than solely relying on scoring. This approach has allowed Bailey to develop a more well-rounded game. He’s currently averaging 15.5 points per game since early February, showcasing his growing potential.

As Bailey continues to mature, both on and off the court, he’s proving that he’s more than just hype. He’s a dedicated player, a good teammate, and a rising star in the NBA. He was a late addition to the Rising Stars Challenge, a testament to his progress. Like most teenagers, he’s still a work in progress, a story still being written. But one thing is clear: Ace Bailey is ready to write his own chapter.

Source: The Salt Lake Tribune