Jazz Rookie Ace Bailey Impresses with Offensive Surge

Coach Will Hardy credits Bailey's improved conditioning and chemistry with teammates for his recent scoring outburst.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Utah Jazz rookie Ace Bailey has been on a tear lately, averaging 15.2 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists over the past 15 games. Coach Will Hardy attributes Bailey's offensive surge to the 19-year-old finding his rhythm, developing chemistry with his teammates, and improving his conditioning to handle the physicality of the NBA game.

Why it matters

As the Jazz appear to be in full tank mode, Bailey's strong play gives the team's fans something to be excited about. The fifth overall pick is showcasing his potential and proving he can be a key part of the team's future.

The details

Bailey is averaging 11.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists while shooting 33.8% from 3-point range in 47 appearances this season. He has found success scoring in a variety of ways, including knocking down 3-pointers, attacking the rim, and cutting to the basket. Coach Hardy has been most impressed with Bailey's cutting ability, which allows him to create separation and get easy baskets.

  • Bailey returned to the starting lineup from a hip injury on Jan. 14.
  • Over the past 15 games, Bailey is averaging 15.2 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists.
  • On Jan. 22, Bailey became the youngest player in Jazz franchise history to score at least 25 points in a game (19 years, 162 days).

The players

Ace Bailey

A 19-year-old rookie forward for the Utah Jazz, selected 5th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Will Hardy

The head coach of the Utah Jazz, who has praised Bailey's recent offensive surge and development.

Jusuf Nurk

A Jazz teammate of Ace Bailey, with whom Bailey has developed good chemistry on the court.

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What they’re saying

“Ace is doing it in a variety of ways. He is finding his opportunities to shoot 3s. He is finding his opportunities, trying to get on the rim, especially in transition. He has done a good job of recognizing when to shoot his pull-up. I think I've been most impressed with his cutting. I think it has allowed him to get some easy baskets. He and (Jusuf) Nurk have a good understanding of each other, and Ace's athleticism really shows up when he cuts, because he can create a lot of separation quickly.”

— Will Hardy, Head Coach, Utah Jazz (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

With the Jazz seemingly in rebuilding mode, Ace Bailey should continue to see extended playing time and opportunities to showcase his skills as the season progresses.

The takeaway

Ace Bailey's recent offensive surge demonstrates his potential as a key part of the Jazz's future. His improved conditioning, chemistry with teammates, and ability to score in a variety of ways have impressed the coaching staff and given Jazz fans reason for optimism.