In his debut for the Utah Jazz at the Salt Lake City Summer League, rookie Ace Bailey may not have lit up the scoreboard with just eight points on 3-of-13 shooting, but he showcased a gritty work ethic that impressed his new coaches. Despite being outshined by the explosive performance of Sixers' No. 3 pick VJ Edgecombe, who dropped 28 points, Bailey's defensive efforts and crucial rebound in the final seconds secured a 93-89 victory for the Jazz. The 18-year-old's willingness to defend, rebound, and support his teammates highlighted his potential as a versatile player with room to grow.
While Bailey's offensive game may have been quieter than expected, Jazz head coach Will Hardy emphasized the importance of the rookie's defensive contributions and overall teamwork. Despite some initial doubts surrounding Bailey's commitment to joining the Jazz, his enthusiasm and positive work ethic during summer league practices have started to turn heads. As Bailey adjusts to the NBA level and continues to develop his game, the Jazz coaching staff remains focused on helping him establish a well-rounded presence on the court beyond just scoring, setting the stage for his promising future in Utah.