Jazz Rookie Ace Bailey Out With Hip Flexor Injury

Utah Jazz rookie Ace Bailey, the No. 5 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has been sidelined from the Las Vegas Summer League due to a right hip flexor injury that is being evaluated on a day-to-day basis and is not considered long-term. Bailey previously impressed in the Salt Lake City Summer League, including an 18-point game, but his debut in Las Vegas is delayed as the Jazz prioritize his health. Coaches remain optimistic about Bailey's development, praising his athleticism and adaptability. In his absence, rookies Kyle Filipowski and Walton Clayton Jr. have delivered strong performances, although Clayton is also dealing with a minor injury. The team is monitoring Bailey and other injured players like John Tonje daily, with their return dependent on ongoing assessments. The Jazz emphasize that missing Summer League games will not significantly impact Bailey's long-term NBA prospects.