Utah Jazz Forward Ace Bailey Shines in Rookie Season, Named to NBA All-Rookie Second Team
Utah Jazz forward Ace Bailey has been recognized for his outstanding performance in his rookie season by being named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. Bailey showcased his skills in 72 games, starting in 61 of them, and averaged 13.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in 27.6 minutes per game, ranking sixth in scoring among rookies.
Bailey's impressive rookie campaign included 16 games with 20 or more points, placing him fifth among first-year players. He also had three 30-point performances, which tied him for the third-most among rookies. Additionally, Bailey made 137 three-point field goals during the season, ranking third among rookies and fourth all-time for teenagers in NBA history.
After the All-Star break, Bailey's performance soared as he averaged 18.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.1 blocks in 30.3 minutes per game. Notably, he achieved a remarkable feat in March by scoring 25 or more points in three consecutive games from March 19 to 23, making him the fifth-youngest player in NBA history to accomplish this.
Among Jazz rookies, Bailey set records with his 13.8 scoring average, the highest ever by a teenager and the fourth-highest overall. His 16 20-point games rank fourth in franchise history among rookies, while his three 30-point performances are tied for third. Furthermore, his 137 made three-pointers stand as the third-most in a single season by a Jazz rookie.
Ace Bailey joins a prestigious group of Jazz players who have received All-Rookie honors, including Keyonte George (2023-24), Derrick Favors (2010-11), Paul Millsap (2006-07), and Theodore “Blue” Edwards (1989-90). Bailey's inclusion in the All-Rookie Second Team solidifies his status as a rising star in the NBA.