New Utah Jazz rookie Ace Bailey seems intent on becoming a notable name from the 2025 NBA Draft, albeit not in the best light. His situation grew more complicated when reports emerged on Friday indicating he had not yet joined the Jazz.
As of Friday morning, Bailey was still absent from his new team, according to NJ.com. This information follows a peculiar draft process in which Bailey refused to workout for teams before the draft.
Prior to the draft, reports suggested that Bailey aimed to land with one of three specific teams, none of which included the Jazz. Despite this, the Jazz selected him as the No. 5 overall pick. After the draft, it seemed one of Bailey’s representatives advised a top-five team against selecting him, though the specific team remains unidentified.
When questioned about the situation post-selection, Bailey didn’t express overt anger, instead offering a neutral response by stating, “I can control what I control. How they feel is how they feel.”
The situation intensified when Bailey’s manager, Omar Cooper, declined to comment on Bailey’s future in Utah after the second day of the draft. However, on Friday morning, Andrew Witlieb, president of GSE Worldwide, which represents Bailey, said on a podcast that Bailey was excited about joining Utah.
Though Bailey had not yet reported to the Jazz, this wasn’t entirely unusual; for example, the Dallas Mavericks’ No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg also delayed his report until Friday. Nevertheless, the Jazz expects him to join the team over the weekend. Team vice president Avery Bradley mentioned that he anticipates all rookies to report in a timely manner for Summer League preparations.
What if Bailey doesn’t report to Utah?
If Bailey chooses not to report, he would be ineligible to play in the NBA this season and couldn’t return to college basketball. He could opt for overseas play, but that would mean the Jazz would retain his draft rights. If he forgoes reporting and doesn’t play elsewhere, he could re-enter the 2026 NBA Draft, where he might face a lower selection.
Who is Omar Cooper?
Bailey’s relationship with Cooper has been somewhat unclear; some have identified him as Bailey’s agent despite reports stating he isn’t certified. Witlieb clarified this during the podcast, designating Cooper as Bailey’s manager.
Cooper is focused on finding the most suitable fit for Bailey rather than simply aiming for a higher draft position. Witlieb emphasized that their collaboration was centered on identifying the best possible basketball opportunity for Bailey, which they believe Utah represents.
