Ace Bailey, once considered a consensus top-three prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft, experienced a notable decline in his draft stock, falling outside of many Top 5 rankings. This downturn, occurring at a crucial juncture in his young career, was attributed to a combination of on-court evaluations and off-court decisions. Talent evaluators raised concerns about Bailey's shot selection and what was perceived as a "selfish brand of basketball" during his single season at Rutgers. These observations led some to question his potential to develop into a balanced offensive player, or even his willingness to embrace a supportive "3-and-D" role alongside established stars.

Beyond his play, a significant factor contributing to the tumble was the controversial handling of his pre-draft process by Bailey and his representatives, particularly his manager, Omar Cooper. Bailey's widely reported unwillingness to work out for multiple NBA teams, coupled with persistent rumors about specific teams he wished to avoid, generated skepticism among fans, pundits, and, crucially, front office members. This situation drew sharp criticism from figures like ESPN's Kendrick Perkins, who, on "Road Trippin'," condemned the advice given to Bailey. Perkins lambasted what he called "vultures" who exploit young athletes, taking them under their wing, providing financial assistance to their families, and showering them with material possessions, all while harboring hidden agendas that ultimately do not serve the youngsters' best interests. Perkins asserted that Bailey and his team handled the entire pre-draft scenario "completely wrong," emphasizing that in the NBA, "they don't need you."

Despite the swirling controversies and Ace Bailey's reported disinterest in joining the franchise, the Utah Jazz ultimately selected him as the No. 5 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Reports indicated that Bailey had a preference for being drafted outside the top-5, specifically hoping for picks six through eight, with Utah not being on his preferred list. Nevertheless, the Jazz remained undeterred. Following his selection, initial concerns arose about Bailey not reporting to the team, but these were quickly quelled. The Jazz confirmed his arrival in Utah by posting a video of him disembarking a plane, and Jazz representatives, including Austin Ainge, the president of basketball operations, and Avery Bradley, VP of Player Development, maintained that communication with Bailey and his camp had been positive throughout. They expressed confidence in Bailey as a player and a fit for their program, with a press conference and team practice swiftly scheduled upon his landing.

For his part, Ace Bailey has since voiced enthusiasm for his new opportunity in Utah. In post-draft interviews, he addressed Jazz fans, stating his eagerness "to showcase to the Utah world, the Utah fans, what type of player I am." He also set ambitious personal goals, declaring his desire to "definitely want to win Rookie of the Year" and "definitely want to be an All-Star my rookie year," among other aspirations. Bailey denied any attempts to manipulate his draft position to land with teams like the Washington Wizards or New Orleans Pelicans, clarifying he "had nothing to do with that." He acknowledged the vast scope for his development, stating, "I feel like I can improve on everything. I’m very young... it’s a lot of stuff I can improve, physically and mentally. I mean, from jump shots to more creativity, to more ballhandling, just all over the place." He described himself as a "leader, confidence. Hard worker. Just a player that pushes people to be the best. A very great teammate."

Meanwhile, Ace Bailey’s agent, Omar Cooper, defended their pre-draft strategy, asserting that their process was entirely within the normal course of business. Cooper highlighted that Bailey participated in 18 interviews, provided medicals, and showcased his skills at the Chicago combine, where "everyone got his medical. They watched him run and jump. They got his measurements. They watched him shoot in drills. There is nothing uncommon about how Ace Bailey's pre-draft process was handled." Other NBA figures weighed in, with Daryl Morey of the Philadelphia 76ers confirming that Bailey's refusal to work out for them had no bearing on their decision not to select him at the No. 3 pick. Jazz fans and media will get their first look at Ace Bailey in the upcoming Summer League games, where the Jazz are scheduled to play teams including the 76ers, Grizzlies, and Thunder in Utah, followed by games against the Hornets, Warriors, Spurs, and Wizards in Las Vegas.