Leading up to the NBA Draft, the fate of standout prospect Ace Bailey was one of the most discussed topics. Known as the third-best player in the draft behind Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper, Bailey had specific team preferences that ultimately influenced his selection. Despite his hopes, he was picked by the Utah Jazz, a decision that could offer unexpected advantages.
Ace Bailey’s Draft Journey
Ace Bailey, widely regarded as the third-best player in the recent NBA Draft, made headlines as teams jockeyed for position. While Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper were selected first and second, respectively, Bailey’s wishes to avoid the Philadelphia 76ers at the No. 3 pick were well-known. He also expressed a lack of interest in being drafted by the Charlotte Hornets at fourth or the Utah Jazz at fifth.
Bailey’s preferred landing spots were the Washington Wizards, New Orleans Pelicans, and Brooklyn Nets, who held the sixth, seventh, and eighth picks. In a bold move to enhance his chances of being selected by one of those teams, Bailey chose not to participate in workouts for any franchises, making him the only U.S. prospect to take this approach.
Utah Jazz Selection and Future Prospects
Bailey’s strategy came close to paying off. The 76ers selected Baylor guard V.J. Edgcombe, while the Hornets took Duke’s Kon Knueppel. However, the Jazz ultimately chose Bailey at No. 5, unable to overlook his talent.
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Had Bailey secured the No. 3 pick, he would have signed a rookie contract worth $50,438,478 over four seasons. Instead, by landing at No. 5, his contract will be approximately $41,209,782, representing a loss of over $9 million.
Despite his initial disappointment, Bailey’s demeanor upon being drafted suggested optimism. Joining a team led by Lauri Markkanen, Walker Kessler, and Collin Sexton, Bailey has an opportunity to fill a crucial wing position. With the Jazz having the worst record in the NBA last season, there is potential for Bailey to establish himself as a key figure in the franchise.
If he can secure a prominent role, he may set himself up for a max contract worth well over nine figures once his rookie deal concludes. This opportunity, although not his preferred scenario, could prove beneficial for Bailey’s long-term career prospects.
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