Ace Bailey, a newcomer to the Utah Jazz, is currently seeking a fresh representative. According to reports from The Athletic, the No. 5 selection in the 2025 NBA Draft has ended his professional association with Omar Cooper, as indicated by The Athletic. This pursuit of new guidance comes roughly three months following a sequence of events that significantly characterized the draft proceedings. Amidst a pre-draft period marked by considerable commotion, it’s alleged that Bailey’s representatives, spearheaded by Cooper, communicated to at least one team positioned near the top of the draft order that the former Rutgers standout would decline to join their ranks if chosen.
The scrutiny surrounding Cooper’s involvement in Bailey’s pre-draft engagements intensified due to his status as an uncertified agent with the NBPA, thereby precluding him from formally advocating for his client in contractual discussions.
Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper, the latter of whom shared collegiate basketball ties with Bailey at Rutgers, were consistently regarded as frontrunners for the No. 1 and No. 2 picks, respectively. Bailey entered the draft arena with a reputation rivaling any prospect beyond the top two, yet his representation’s maneuvers appeared aimed at diverting him from the upper echelon of selections. Information from Marc Stein suggests that the Washington Wizards emerged as the intended destination at the No. 6 spot.
Debate: Will Ace Bailey prove to be a stroke of genius or a blunder for the Jazz?
James Herbert
Bailey opted out of a training session with the Philadelphia 76ers, holders of the No. 3 pick, prompting conjectures about the willingness of the Charlotte Hornets (No. 4) and Jazz (No. 5) to enlist the services of the former highly touted recruit.
Indeed, the Jazz proceeded to claim Bailey with their initial pick in the first round. However, the controversy surrounding Cooper persisted even after the draft’s conclusion.
Initially, Utah had designs on integrating Cooper’s son, Omar Cooper Jr., into their Summer League coaching staff as a guest. Subsequently, the NBA reportedly engaged with the Jazz to voice apprehensions, leading to the abandonment of the arrangement.
Observations emanating from Bailey himself imply a firm commitment to the Jazz and contentment with his role within the organization.
“I feel truly fortunate to find myself in this position,” Bailey remarked upon his arrival in Utah. “Few individuals have the privilege of occupying these positions and sharing camaraderie with outstanding teammates who have joined me. I am simply grateful to be present here.”
