Overview
- Ace Bailey confirmed he has cut ties with longtime manager Omar Cooper, saying the move was to give him peace and clarity as he starts his NBA career.
- The Utah Jazz drafted Bailey at No. 5 despite reports that Cooper tried to steer him toward No. 6 and discouraged workouts with teams picking earlier.
- It remains unclear who will formally represent Bailey next, with one report indicating he is likely to sign with a major NBA agency.
- Jazz leadership praised Bailey’s size, length, athleticism and upbeat energy, framing the change off the court as a chance to keep the focus on basketball.
- Head coach Will Hardy outlined a defense-first approach for Bailey to begin his rookie season, and the rookie embraced the emphasis as training camp opens.