SALT LAKE CITY – The Utah Jazz halted their seven-game losing streak with a 122-112 victory against the Washington Wizards. Ace Bailey led the way, scoring a career-high 32 points while Isaiah Collier contributed 27 points and 11 assists. Meanwhile, Trae Young made his much-anticipated debut for the Wizards, putting up 12 points in 19 minutes.
Ace Bailey Sets Record as Youngest Jazz Player to Score 30 Points
At just 19 years and 204 days old, Ace Bailey became the youngest player in Utah Jazz history to surpass 30 points in a game. He shot an efficient 12-of-19 from the field, including a formidable 7-of-11 from three-point range. Bailey’s performance reflected his college scoring feats, where he recorded multiple 30-plus point games, including impressive 39 and 37-point outings against Indiana and Northwestern.
Bailey came out strong from the start, scoring 11 points in the first quarter and reaching 21 by halftime. His ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting was a key factor in the Jazz’s offensive success.
This was Ace’s best game as a pro on the offensive side, and a lot of it had to do with three point line,
said Jazz coach Will Hardy.
[He] made a lot of good reads, especially coming off handoffs on the second side and finding those pocket threes and knocking them down tonight. So I was happy for him.
Bailey’s shooting approach, which focused on threes and attacking the rim instead of mid-range jumpers, was a notable shift. Basketball analyst Ben Anderson highlighted the significance of this change, tweeting,
I don’t think it’s a coincidence that in Ace Bailey’s best offensive night, he largely neglected the mid-range and either knocked down threes or got to the rim. I think seeing more shot charts like this will be key to his development.
In addition to his lethal perimeter shooting, Bailey showed finesse finishing around the basket, making 4-of-5 attempts inside three feet. Despite his slender frame, Bailey’s ability to make tough shots inside remains a vital part of his game, although both he and the Jazz would benefit by emphasizing three-pointers and driving to the hoop more consistently.
I just want to first give thanks to my teammates for giving the ball in the position they know I can score,
Bailey said after the game.
While the timing for when Bailey’s overall offensive game will fully flourish remains uncertain, Thursday’s performance served as a reminder of the reason this promising wing was regarded as such a valuable prospect.
Utah Jazz’s Patient Development Strategy Pays Off
Although some fans hoping for better lottery odds might be frustrated by the Jazz’s win, the organization’s clear focus on long-term growth over quick fixes appears to be bearing fruit. Trae Young’s debut for the Washington Wizards, following his acquisition in early January, revealed why he generated minimal trade interest despite his offensive talents.
Young showed flashes of scoring and playmaking ability, recording 12 points and six assists during his 19 minutes on the floor. However, his defensive shortcomings were evident as the Jazz repeatedly targeted him. The Wizards also integrated Anthony Davis, acquired at the trade deadline, to help buttress their defense, but neither player is currently delivering the consistent performance required to turn Washington’s fortunes around.
TRAE YOUNG’S FIRST CAREER BUCKET AS A WIZARD 🪄 pic.twitter.com/J6MQg0cu9f
— NBA on ESPN
Early in Utah’s rebuild, speculation linked Young to the Jazz, who sought a lead guard while Atlanta considered moving their four-time All-Star guard. Yet the Jazz chose to exercise patience, opting to develop promising guards Keyonte George and Isaiah Collier over two seasons rather than rushing to acquire Young.
Now, Keyonte George is emerging as a potential star, and Collier has proven to be a reliable backup. Meanwhile, Utah has maintained trade assets that recently helped secure Jaren Jackson Jr., who has already demonstrated his ability to impact both offense and defense in three games with the Jazz.
Though there is no guarantee that Jackson Jr. will lead Utah to its first championship or that George will approach Young’s scoring level, the combination of these young players with Lauri Markkanen gives the Jazz a significantly stronger core than what the Wizards currently possess.
Washington’s future will depend on hitting the lottery to draft a transformational star; otherwise, they may face starting another rebuild sooner than anticipated.
Upcoming Jazz Game Against the Milwaukee Bucks
The Utah Jazz will travel to Milwaukee to face the Bucks on Saturday at 6 p.m. MST. Fans can watch the game on KJZZ, stream it on Jazz+, or listen live via 97.5 The KSL Sports Zone.
For continued coverage and updates, follow @benshoops on Twitter and connect with KSL Sports on Instagram at @kslsports.
I don't think it's a coincidence that in Ace Bailey's best offensive night, he largely neglected the mid-range and either knocked down threes or got to the rim.
I think seeing more shot charts like this will be key to his development. pic.twitter.com/B9mqiVZ608
— Ben Anderson (@BensHoops) March 6, 2026
TRAE YOUNG'S FIRST CAREER BUCKET AS A WIZARD 🪄 pic.twitter.com/J6MQg0cu9f
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) March 6, 2026
