Utah Jazz Silence Ace Bailey Draft Drama with Telling Social Media Post
The Utah Jazz ended days of swirling rumors and speculation surrounding their No. 5 draft pick, Rutgers star Ace Bailey, with a single, powerful social media post that quieted the noise and reassured fans.
On Sunday, the team posted a video across their official social channels showing Bailey arriving in Salt Lake City, embracing head coach Will Hardy, and donning team gear. The caption read: “Ace on top da mountain ️ Welcome to Utah, @AiriousB! Let’s get to work #TakeNote.” In just a few seconds, the Jazz dismissed growing concerns that Bailey might be hesitant to report to Utah following the NBA Draft.
In the days leading up to and following the draft, Bailey had been the subject of intense scrutiny. Reports surfaced that he had skipped workouts with certain teams, and speculation mounted that he might not report to Utah if selected. His absence from the flight to Utah alongside fellow draftee Walter Clayton Jr. only added to the drama.
But the Jazz’s well-timed post sent a clear message: Bailey is in Utah, focused, and ready to get to work.
Bailey later addressed the media, expressing his excitement and gratitude. “I’m blessed to be here,” he said, signaling a willingness to embrace his new team. He also revealed he’ll wear jersey No. 19—marking a fresh start from his Rutgers No. 4.
Jazz executives and Bailey’s representatives also downplayed the earlier rumors, with team owner Ryan Smith stating confidently, “He’s going to love it here.”
With Bailey now officially on board, the Jazz can look ahead to Summer League with clarity and confidence. The brief social media video may have said little, but its message was loud and clear: Ace Bailey is a Jazzman.
