
Ace Bailey's draft journey ended Wednesday night when the Utah Jazz selected the Rutgers star with the No. 5 pick—and what a drama-filled journey it was.
In the months leading up to the 2025 NBA Draft, the Rutgers forward refused to work out with any NBA teams during the pre-draft process, going against the grain of convention. On top of that, Bailey reportedly had three preferred destinations in mind (the Washington Wizards, New Orleans Pelicans and Brooklyn Nets)—though he personally claimed that wasn't the case hours before the draft kicked off in New York City.