In a closely contested matchup on November 13, 2025, the Utah Jazz faced the Atlanta Hawks at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. Despite the loss marking the Jazz’s eighth of the season, the night featured standout performances, particularly from rookie Ace Bailey.
Ace Bailey Shines in Defeat Despite Lost Game
Ace Bailey, the fifth-overall pick in the recent draft, delivered another impressive outing. He scored 21 points in just 32 minutes, continuing a remarkable streak after recently achieving his first 20-point game. This performance highlighted his scoring ability, as he connected on eight of 13 attempts from the field and made four three-pointers. In addition, he contributed five rebounds, three assists, and two steals.
Bailey’s Rising Stat Line
Bailey’s current form is noteworthy, especially since his promotion to the starting lineup three games ago. During this stretch, he has averaged:
- 17.0 points per game
- 5.3 rebounds per game
- 2.0 assists per game
- 54.3% shooting from the field
His career milestone of back-to-back games with over 20 points and four three-pointers also makes him the youngest player in NBA history to achieve this feat.
Impact and Future Potential
Bailey is becoming a versatile offensive threat, excelling as a cutter and mid-range shooter, complementing star forward Lauri Markkanen effectively. Both players have contributed to dynamic scoring, with Markkanen delivering an impressive 40-point performance in the same game.
In addition, Bailey’s physical attributes—standing at 6 feet 9 inches with a 7-foot wingspan—enhance his defensive versatility. Head coach Will Hardy noted that while Bailey’s conditioning has room for improvement, there has been no significant issue impacting his performance lately. Hardy emphasized the importance of building confidence in young players by managing their court time effectively.
Bailey’s emergence as a key player in the Jazz lineup promises a bright future. As he continues to adapt to the rigors of professional basketball, expectations remain high for his development this season and beyond. Fans and analysts alike have reason to remain optimistic about the Jazz’s young star.
