Rutgers star Ace Bailey has been one of the most polarizing prospects about to enter the NBA for months now. The upside and talent are evident, but he’s still a little raw.
That’s why some people have been shocked to watch his decision not to work out for several teams picking near the top of the 2025 NBA Draft. He’s now slipping in most big boards.
And according to ESPN insider Jeremy Woo, this isn’t a coincidence. Apparently, Bailey and his camp are botching things because they’re actively looking to avoid certain teams, namely the Utah Jazz.
Ace Bailey doesn’t want to play for the Utah Jazz
“Bailey, who continues sliding down the board in this scenario, doesn’t appear to have much interest in Utah and is viewed by most teams as a riskier bet,” wrote Woo.
Ace Bailey #4 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights
For years, Jazz fans have drawn a tough reputation among some players. Perhaps it has nothing to do with that, and he just doesn’t want to play for a rebuilding team, but his approach to the draft has definitely been far from orthodox. The Jazz have the No. 5 pick, and Bailey may no longer be an option.
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