Ace Bailey Reflects on Facing LeBron James and the Lakers
The Utah Jazz’s fifth-overall draft pick got another opportunity to go head-to-head with LeBron James as the Jazz narrowly fell to the Los Angeles Lakers, 108–106, at the Delta Center. Utah mounted a strong fourth-quarter rally, but it wasn’t enough to flip the result.
For young Jazz players who grew up watching LeBron dominate the NBA, these matchups come with extra excitement. Bailey, selected No. 5 overall this summer, faced the 21-time All-Star for the second time in his young career over the weekend. Having essentially grown up during LeBron’s entire professional tenure, Bailey savors each chance to compete against him.
“That’s really fun,” Bailey said after the game. “I used to watch them as a kid, so now being out there guarding them in big moments—that’s something I get to check off the list.”
Bailey delivered a solid outing in front of LeBron and the Lakers, finishing with 10 points on 40% shooting, five rebounds, and three assists in 32 minutes as a starter. He continues to show encouraging signs since moving into the starting lineup.
LeBron, meanwhile, turned in another well-rounded performance with 17 points, six rebounds, and eight assists. Luka Dončić added MVP-level production with 33 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists, helping Los Angeles secure a 2-0 lead in the season series.
Will Hardy Encouraged by Jazz’s Defensive Focus
Head coach Will Hardy praised his team’s defensive intensity, though Utah’s shooting woes ultimately made the difference.
“I was really pleased with our focus and competitiveness on defense,” Hardy said. “Offensively, we just struggled to make shots. We created good looks but couldn’t get them to fall. I’m proud of the way we fought… it just wasn’t quite enough.”
Utah will get two more chances this season to avoid a sweep by the Lakers — the next matchup coming December 18, followed by the regular-season finale in April in Los Angeles.
No Comment! Be the first one.