As the Salt Lake City Summer League approaches, questions linger about whether Utah Jazz draft pick Ace Bailey will report for the games. Despite a recent ESPN report suggesting potential hesitation from Bailey’s camp, Jazz officials remain optimistic about their top selection.
“It is my understanding that all of our draft picks are going to be here this weekend and preparing for summer league,” stated Avery Bradley, Jazz Vice President of Player Development, on Thursday. This assurance comes in the wake of ESPN’s claim that Bailey’s representatives had advised a top-five drafting team against selecting him, threatening non-participation if they did. The report, however, did not specify which team was advised.
Background and Pre-Draft Tensions
Bailey, a former Rutgers guard, stirred controversy during the pre-draft process by refusing individual workouts, a move that raised eyebrows across the league. On draft night, ESPN reported that Utah was not among Bailey’s preferred destinations, with his sights set on Washington, New Orleans, or Brooklyn instead.
The discord appears to originate from Bailey’s inner circle. Omar Cooper, Bailey’s longtime manager and father of former NBA player Sharife Cooper, was the primary contact for NBA teams during the draft. Cooper reportedly attempted to guide Bailey to one of the three teams ranked below Utah.
Representation and Reassurances
Despite the initial reluctance, Bailey’s registered agency, GSE Worldwide, has expressed enthusiasm about the Jazz selection. Andrew Witlieb, the agency’s president, told Front Office Sports, “He’s thrilled to be going to Utah. Obviously, it’s an honor to be selected in the top 5 of the NBA draft. We think he can do a lot of great things out there.”
Witlieb further clarified that GSE Worldwide is collaborating with Cooper in representing Bailey, with Daniel Green, an NBPA-certified agent, handling day-to-day responsibilities. “Omar really focused on fit rather than going higher in the draft,” Witlieb said, emphasizing that Utah is viewed as an excellent opportunity for Bailey.
“We’re going to literally put so many things in place so all he’s going to do is focus on basketball and getting better,” Witlieb added.
Public Reactions and Future Prospects
Jazz owner Ryan Smith addressed the reported concerns during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” asserting that it is the team’s responsibility to make Bailey feel at home in Utah. “I’m confident in our state and he’ll feel love like he’s never felt before,” Smith remarked.
Meanwhile, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst expressed confidence in the Jazz’s leadership, particularly Danny Ainge and his son, Austin, to navigate the situation effectively. “They’re not going to get pushed around,” Windhorst commented, suggesting that any pressure from Bailey’s camp would likely be unsuccessful.
“So the idea that they’re going to pressure the Jazz into something, I don’t think will be successful for Ace Bailey and his operation,” Windhorst said.
Bailey’s Perspective
For his part, Bailey has expressed gratitude for being drafted by the Jazz, despite the surprise. “The little kid in me is smiling hard right now,” he shared, reflecting on the journey and sacrifices made to reach this point. “I’m just blessed to be here.”
As the Salt Lake City Summer League kicks off on July 5, all of the Jazz’s draft picks, including Bailey, are expected to report for practice sessions starting Monday. The coming days will be crucial in determining Bailey’s integration into the team and his potential impact in the league.
