Since the All-Star break, 19-year-old Ace Bailey has averaged 16.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists, helping the Utah Jazz end an eight-game losing streak and instilling hope for the team’s future. Bailey’s impressive shooting and quick release have drawn comparisons to Hall of Famer Ray Allen, highlighting his potential to become a key contributor in the NBA.
Jason Terry Sees Hall of Fame Traits in Bailey’s Game
Utah Jazz assistant coach Jason Terry, a former NBA standout, praised Bailey’s rapid shooting ability and movement without the ball, comparing the rookie’s style to that of Ray Allen. Terry pointed out Bailey’s ability to excel coming off screens and pin downs, as well as his effectiveness shooting threes in transition, calling it a “quick release” reminiscent of Allen’s approach to perimeter shooting.
“Coming off screens, pin downs, shooting threes in transition,”
Jason Terry, Assistant Coach- Utah Jazz
Bailey’s Career-High and Historic NBA Rookie Achievement
Among Bailey’s recent standout moments was a career-high 32-point game against the Golden State Warriors on March 5, during which he hit 7-of-11 three-pointers. This performance made him the only rookie this season to sink seven threes while shooting over 63% in a single game. At 19 years and 204 days old, Bailey also became the youngest player in Jazz history to score 30 or more points in a game.
Team Contributions and Utah’s Growing Promise
While Bailey missed a subsequent 119-116 win over Golden State due to illness, the Jazz’s victory highlighted the strength of their young roster. Brice Sensabaugh added 21 points, and two-way player Blake Hinson hit four three-pointers, including a clutch go-ahead shot in the final 30 seconds. Kyle Filipowski contributed 19 points and 15 rebounds, aiding the team’s effort to end its losing streak in a game marked by 19 lead changes.
Jazz’s Outlook as They Build Toward Greater Success
After finishing with a disappointing 17-65 record last season and sitting at 19-42 through 61 games this year, Utah’s recent progress and Bailey’s emerging talent suggest momentum is building. As the Jazz prepare for the 2026-27 season, they are moving beyond a strategy centered on protecting a top-eight draft pick and focusing on competing with a roster featuring key players such as Jaren Jackson Jr., Lauri Markkanen, Keyonte George, and Bailey himself.
