Ace Bailey, the talented Rutgers standout, confidently linked his playing style to NBA stars Jayson Tatum, Kevin Durant, and Paul George before being selected No. 5 overall by the Utah Jazz in the 2024 NBA Draft. This bold self-assessment came during an interview in 2023, reflecting Bailey’s belief in his versatile skill set as he prepares to enter the league.
Bailey’s Self-Comparison with NBA Stars Highlights His Versatility
In a conversation for All the Smoke conducted by Matt Barnes in August 2023, then-high-school star Ace Bailey was asked to explain his game and reveal which NBA players his style resembles. When prompted by Barnes to describe his approach and compare it to established players, Bailey confidently named Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, and Paul George as his basketball molds.
“I compare myself to Kevin Durant and Jayson Tatum and Paul George,” Bailey said. “I’m 6’9″, I can handle the ball, I can see the court, I can knock down shots, I can off the dribble … I can do it all.”
—Ace Bailey
Bailey’s assertion highlighted his ability to play multiple roles on the court, showcasing ball handling, shooting, and court vision. Even before entering the NBA, he measured himself against players widely regarded for their offensive prowess and versatility.
The Unconventional Path to the NBA: Bailey’s Draft Process
Despite strong performances and growing recognition, Bailey’s pre-draft journey deviated from the norm. Leading up to the 2024 draft, Bailey notably declined workout invitations from several prominent teams holding high picks, including the 76ers, Hornets, and eventually the Utah Jazz, which ultimately selected him.
Bailey’s camp expressed confidence going into the draft, indicating that they had engaged with a team outside the top five, which aligned better with their vision for his development. However, the specifics of these discussions remain unknown, and Bailey had no visits to any NBA team facilities during this period, making his approach notably cautious and strategic.
Response to Being Drafted by Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz chose Bailey with their No. 5 overall pick despite his refusal to participate in their workout. When asked about being selected by the Jazz, Bailey remained measured, emphasizing his focus on controlling what he can and trusting the process.
“I control what I control,” Bailey said after being drafted. “How they feel (is) how they feel. But my team and me, just me focusing on the basketball and them doing what they doing, it happens.”
—Ace Bailey
This response reflects Bailey’s resilience and focus amid an unusual and perhaps uncertain draft timeline, signaling his readiness to adapt and contribute at the professional level.
Implications of Bailey’s Draft and Future NBA Impact
Ace Bailey’s entry into the NBA will be closely watched as he joins a league full of players he boldly compared himself to just months earlier. His willingness to measure up against Jayson Tatum, Kevin Durant, and Paul George speaks to his aspirations and confidence, while his unique pre-draft decisions suggest a thoughtful approach to managing his career path.
As Bailey begins his tenure with the Utah Jazz, his development will be key to seeing if he can fulfill the potential he envisioned when he identified himself with some of the NBA’s top two-way wings. His adaptability and skill set could make a significant impact for Utah and help define his place among the current crop of emerging NBA stars.