Jazz Rookie Ace Bailey Elevates 2025 NBA Draft to Historic Heights
Utah Jazz rookie Ace Bailey has significantly risen during a remarkable January, providing hope for the team’s future. His development contributes to the ongoing conversation around the elite status of the 2025 NBA Draft class.
2025 NBA Draft Impresses with Talented Rookies
The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be historic, as nearly all top picks have showcased exceptional talent in their debut seasons. The expectation is that the first five selections are expected to be the elite of their class. However, the reality of multiple players transitioning to high-level professionals can be challenging.
Strong Performances from Top Picks
- Cooper Flagg – One of the leading candidates for Rookie of the Year.
- VJ Edgecombe – A standout performer in early games.
- Kon Knueppel – Highly ranked among top five picks.
- Dylan Harper – Contributing to a potential playoff team’s success.
- Collin Murray-Boyles – Sharing meaningful playing time in competitive situations.
Other notable rookies include Egor Demin, Jeremiah Fears, and Tre Johnson, each making significant contributions to their respective teams.
Ace Bailey’s Rising Star
Ace Bailey has adapted well after a slow start. In November, he set the stage for improved performance. Currently, he averages 11.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game over 24.9 minutes. His shooting metrics are impressive with a field goal percentage of .455 and three-point shooting at .348.
Statistical Breakdown
| Statistic | Average per Game | Per 36 Minutes |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 11.3 | 16.4 |
| Rebounds | 3.5 | 5.0 |
| Assists | 1.7 | 2.4 |
| Steals | 0.7 | 1.0 |
| Three-Point Field Goals | 1.5 | 2.2 |
Consistency and Future Potential
Bailey has transformed the narrative around his rookie season. He has scored in double figures in eight of his last nine games with a shooting percentage of 49.6%. His performances include scoring at least 18 points in six of those games, highlighted by a standout 25-point game against the San Antonio Spurs.
The remarkable development of Ace Bailey suggests that each of the top five 2025 NBA Draft picks is performing at a competitive level. As Bailey continues this trajectory, the Jazz remain hopeful he will become the co-star they envisioned alongside Lauri Markkanen.
