Camp Storylines: Ace Bailey Feeling 100 Percent
· Yahoo Sports
Utah Jazz media day answered many questions heading into training camp and the preseason.
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For second-year wing Ace Bailey, it was an up-and-down summer following his rookie season.
Bailey averaged 13.8 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game during his rookie campaign in the 2025-26 season. After a slow start for the then 19-year-old, Bailey adjusted to the speed of the league.
Following the turn of the year, Bailey's averages climbed to 16.2 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. He finished the year playing in 72 games and earned All-Rookie second team honors.
Following the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, Bailey dealt with back spasms during the 2026 NBA Summer League, which limited his appearances and eventually led the franchise to shut him down to heal up for training camp.
He left the opener after logging 20 minutes and scoring 10 points on July 4, then exited at halftime during a game on July 12.
During press conferences, Bailey added that he feels 100% healthy when asked about his back spasms.
Bailey made it a point to gain weight at the end of last season. During media day, he told reporters he gained 10 to 12 pounds. He made it clear that he feels different on the court with the extra muscle added.
The weight and muscle gained are promising signs for Jazz fans. Bailey, known for his elite size and wingspan on the defensive end, can become one of the most consistent wings in the league.
Heading into the 2026-27 season, Bailey's status in the lineup remains a wildcard. With the additions of veteran wings Josh Okogie and Josh Green, as well as the addition of No. 2 overall pick Darryn Peterson, Bailey may play multiple positions in multiple lineups.
That's the beauty of a player like Bailey. There is only room to grow in his offensive game. Bailey shot a modest 44.3% from the field and 34.4% from 3-point range.
At 6-foot-9, Bailey has a quick first step and can drive to the cup at a high clip.
He is most comfortable getting to his spots in the midrange area, relying on his frame to get off easy pull-up jumpers and fadeaways.
His overall percentages can be streaky from time to time, scoring 33 against the Bucks, but the degree of difficult shots lowered his true shooting percentage last season.
If Bailey can limit the number of tough midrange shots and increase his catch-and-shoot opportunities on the floor, he may become a go-to guy during winning time for Utah this upcoming season.