Paul George has publicly withdrawn his earlier criticism of Ace Bailey’s strategy during the NBA draft. Speaking on his podcast released Monday, George acknowledged that he was mistaken to judge Bailey’s decisions before fully understanding his perspective. George emphasized that Bailey is a talented player who knows what he wants and deserves to forge his own path in the league.

Addressing his retraction, George stated,

“I want to retract what I said on the situation,”

recognizing the importance of respecting Bailey’s individual choices despite the unusual nature of his pre-draft tactics. He added,

“How can we get on a kid who knows what he wants? We’re not in his shoes. … He wants to do it his way. He’s good enough, he’s got the talent. He’s going to go where he wants to go. Which, that’s his decision. It could have backfired, but it didn’t.”

George also acknowledged the value of personal agency in a player’s career, explaining,

“… Everybody has their own path. However you want to trail blaze, that’s on you. Who are we to say, ‘nah, you’ve got to do it this way, that way.’

”

Ace Bailey’s Draft Decisions and NBA Team Reactions

Ace Bailey’s unique approach to the 2025 NBA draft drew considerable attention and confusion from teams around the league. Reports surfaced that Bailey’s camp declined invitations from various clubs, which puzzled some executives. According to ESPN insiders Jonathan Givony and Shams Charania, Bailey’s representatives communicated that he believes he is a top-three talent but wished to ensure a situation with significant playing time and opportunity for growth.

Givony and Charania explained,

“Sources say Bailey’s camp has informed interested teams that it believes he is a top-three player in the draft, but also seeks a clear path to stardom, hoping to find a situation with ample minutes and usage to maximize his full potential,”

highlighting the player’s desire for a favorable environment to develop.

These actions, although unusual, demonstrate Bailey’s ambition and confidence in his abilities, aiming to maximize his impact from the outset of his NBA career.

Ace Bailey’s Role with the Utah Jazz and Future Potential

Despite questions raised during the pre-draft process, Bailey was selected fifth overall by the Utah Jazz. He swiftly joined the team, dismissed any rumors about not reporting, and participated in Summer League games. Alongside fellow rookie Walter Clayton Jr., Bailey stands at the center of the Jazz’s rebuilding efforts as they try to navigate the challenges of a competitive Western Conference.

The success of this young duo could be critical for Utah’s future prospects. Bailey, in particular, faces a heightened level of scrutiny because of his draft approach, but his early engagement with the team and performances suggest strong potential for growth.

Paul George’s reversal offers both recognition and support from an experienced All-Star, underlining the idea that every player’s route in the NBA is unique and deserving of respect.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. How did Paul George’s injury happen?

A. Daniela George entered the world on November 12, 1990, in Queens, New York. She is known for her past work as a model, entrepreneur, and social media figure. She has Serbian-American roots and is recognized beyond just being Paul George’s wife.

Q. How did Paul George get injured?

A. Ivey broke his fibula during a game against the Orlando Magic on New Year’s Day. Stewart was absent for the last two regular season games. He made a return for the first playoff game against the New York Knicks. However, he couldn’t continue the series because his knee became inflamed.

Q. What caused Paul George’s injury?

A. On March 31, 2013, during the first half of an Elite 8 basketball game against Duke, Ware tried to block a shot. He landed awkwardly on his right leg, resulting in an open fracture. The injury caused his bone to stick out several inches from his shin.

Q. What was Paul George’s injury?

A. Last week, people were surprised, including NBA insider Marc Stein, when they heard Paul George had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee.