Ace Bailey didn’t just get drafted—he landed with weight, hype and a paycheck to match. The Utah Jazz saw something bigger than raw talent, and his contract reflects a vision built for the long haul.
His salary might grab headlines, but the real story is what it says about his role in a franchise that’s reshaping its identity. In Salt Lake City, he’s not just filling a roster spot, he’s part of a blueprint.
The deal sets the tone: expectations are high, the investment is real, and the runway is long. His NBA chapter starts with numbers, yes—but it’s the noise around them that signals just how much is riding on this move.
What is Ace Bailey’s salary with the Utah Jazz?
Ace Bailey will earn approximately $6.8 million in his rookie season (2025–26), as part of the rookie salary scale for a top-five pick. His salary is set to increase each year, reaching around $7.2 million in 2026–27 and $7.5 million in 2027–28, with a fourth-year team option projected at $9.3 million for the 2028–29 season.
Ace Bailey (R) shakes hands with NBA commissioner Adam Silver (L) after being drafted fifth overall by the Utah Jazz during the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. (Source: Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
The total value of his four-year rookie contract could exceed $30 million, depending on the percentage above the rookie scale that the Jazz agreed to (teams can offer between 80% and 120% of the scale amount). He also enters the league with strong endorsement potential.
How long will Ace Bailey be with the Utah Jazz?
Ace Bailey is under contract with the Utah Jazz through at least the 2027–28 season, with a team option for 2028–29. That means the Jazz control his rookie deal for four seasons, from 2025 to 2029, according to Football Network.
Under NBA rules, a player can become eligible for a contract extension after their third year—so the 2027 offseason will be pivotal. In short, he could be wearing a Jazz jersey until 2029, and possibly well beyond if he proves to be the franchise cornerstone they drafted him to be.
