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[Saba Sports News] The Utah Jazz didn’t get the draft lottery result they were hoping for, but part-owner Dwyane Wade is choosing to stay optimistic.
Despite finishing with the NBA’s worst regular-season record at 17-65 and holding a 14% chance at the top pick (tied with the Wizards and Hornets), the Jazz fell to No. 5 overall in the 2025 NBA Draft — the lowest possible outcome given the odds. Still, Wade isn’t discouraged.
“But… there have been some great players drafted with the 5th pick!” Wade wrote on X, referencing his own experience. He was selected fifth overall by the Miami Heat in the legendary 2003 NBA Draft — the same class that produced LeBron James (No. 1), Carmelo Anthony (No. 3), and Chris Bosh (No. 4).
Wade’s post highlights the potential value still available at No. 5, even in a top-heavy draft. Cooper Flagg is widely expected to go first overall to Dallas, with Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey among the other top prospects projected to be off the board early.
If things don’t go as hoped in 2025, the Jazz could shift their focus to 2026 and local star AJ Dybantsa, who is heading to BYU this fall and is widely expected to be a one-and-done lottery talent.