Jazz owner Ryan Smith has addressed concerns about Utah not being one of Ace Bailey’s preferred destinations. Despite reports suggesting the Rutgers star had other teams in mind, Smith believes he was the right pick for Utah.
According to Smith, his team took the best player available and loves Bailey. He spoke with Bailey on Wednesday and said the young man showed humility, gratitude, and excitement to join the NBA. Smith acknowledged some of Bailey’s hesitation about playing in Utah but is confident that the state will win him over.
“We want to take the best player on the board,” Smith explained. “I’m confident in our state and he’ll feel love like he’s never felt before.” Smith believes that with time, Bailey will call Utah home.
Bailey will play in the Salt Lake City Summer League starting July 5, paving the way for him to showcase his skills in Las Vegas. With the Jazz’s leadership, Smith is optimistic about Bailey’s future and confident that they can lead him to success despite initial doubts.
Source: https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2025/06/26/utah-jazz-land-ace-bailey-despite