Jazz Rookie Ace Bailey Named to Rising Stars Game

Bailey replaces injured Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg on All-Star weekend roster

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Utah Jazz rookie Ace Bailey has been selected to replace Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg on the Rising Stars roster for the 2026 NBA All-Star weekend festivities in Los Angeles. Bailey, the 19-year-old Jazz guard, has gained momentum as the season has progressed and will now slot in for Team Melo, coached by Carmelo Anthony, in the Rising Stars mini-tournament.

Why it matters

Bailey's selection to the Rising Stars game is a testament to his development and growing impact with the Jazz this season. As the only top-9 draft pick not initially selected for the event, this call-up provides Bailey with a high-profile platform to showcase his skills alongside the league's other top young talents.

The details

Over the last 12 games, Bailey is averaging 15.8 points and 4.9 rebounds, shooting 46.7% overall and 34.4% from 3-point range. He's played in 48 games this season with 37 starts and has seven 20-point performances. Bailey will now join Team Melo in the Rising Stars mini-tournament, which features three teams of top NBA rookies and second-year players competing against a G League team.

  • On Thursday, the NBA announced Bailey's selection as a replacement player.
  • The Rising Stars event will take place on Friday, February 14, 2026 at 7 p.m. MST.

The players

Ace Bailey

A 19-year-old rookie guard for the Utah Jazz who was selected to replace the injured Cooper Flagg on the Rising Stars roster.

Cooper Flagg

A Dallas Mavericks rookie who was originally selected for the Rising Stars game but is sidelined with a left foot sprain.

Carmelo Anthony

The coach of Team Melo, which Ace Bailey will be joining for the Rising Stars mini-tournament.

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What’s next

Bailey will make his Rising Stars debut on Friday, February 14, 2026 as part of the mini-tournament in Los Angeles.

The takeaway

Ace Bailey's selection to the Rising Stars game is a significant milestone in the young Jazz guard's career, providing him with a high-profile platform to showcase his development and growing impact on the team this season.