Airious “Ace” Bailey has rapidly ascended the ranks of basketball, transitioning from a standout high school player to a top NBA draft pick. Born on August 13, 2006, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Bailey’s journey through basketball showcases his exceptional talent, versatility, and determination.
High School Career: Foundations of a Future Star
Bailey began his high school career at Boyd-Buchanan School in Chattanooga. After his freshman year, he transferred to McEachern High School in Powder Springs, Georgia, where he would make a significant impact. During his senior year, Bailey averaged 33.4 points, 15.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 2.9 blocks per game, leading McEachern to a 26–6 record and a Class A title.
His outstanding performance earned him several prestigious accolades, including:
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Mr. Georgia Basketball (2024)
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McDonald’s All-American (2024)
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Jordan Brand Classic (2024)
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Nike Hoop Summit (2024)
These honors solidified Bailey’s reputation as one of the top high school players in the nation.
College Journey: A Stellar Freshman Year at Rutgers
In November 2023, Bailey committed to Rutgers University, choosing the Scarlet Knights over other elite programs like Kentucky, Kansas, Oregon, and Texas. He joined Rutgers as the highest-ranked recruit in the program’s history, alongside fellow top prospect Dylan Harper.
Freshman Season Highlights (2024–2025):
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Debut Game: In his first collegiate game on November 15, 2024, Bailey scored 17 points, grabbed six rebounds, and recorded two steals and one block in a win over Monmouth.
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First Double-Double: On November 20, 2024, he achieved his first career double-double with 23 points and 10 rebounds against Merrimack.
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Big Ten Freshman of the Week Honors: Bailey earned this recognition twice during the season, highlighting his consistent performance.
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Season Averages: He played 30 games, starting all, and averaged 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.3 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game, shooting 46.0% from the field and 34.6% from three-point range.
His impressive freshman campaign earned him Third-Team All-Big Ten honors and a spot on the Big Ten All-Freshman Team.
NBA Draft & Professional Career: A New Chapter with the Utah Jazz
Following his standout freshman year, Bailey declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. He was selected with the fifth overall pick by the Utah Jazz, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Preseason Performance:
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Preseason Opener: In his debut preseason game, Bailey showcased his scoring ability by scoring 25 points on 11-of-16 shooting, along with six rebounds and three assists.
His performance in the preseason has generated excitement among fans and analysts, anticipating his role in the Jazz’s future.
Physical Profile
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Height: 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters)
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Weight: 200 pounds (90.7 kg)
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Position: Small Forward
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College: Rutgers University
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NBA Team: Utah Jazz
Bailey’s combination of size, athleticism, and skill set allows him to play multiple positions, making him a versatile asset on the court.
Personal Background
Basketball runs in Bailey’s family. His mother, Ramika McGee, played college basketball at West Virginia University, and his father, Richard Bailey, played at Houston. Additionally, his aunt, Venus Lacy, was a member of the 1996 U.S. women’s basketball team that won the Olympic gold medal and played in the WNBA.
Future Outlook
With his impressive skills and work ethic, Bailey is poised to make a significant impact in the NBA. As he continues to develop under the guidance of the Utah Jazz, basketball enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing the growth of this young star.
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