Ace Bailey’s Unconventional Draft Strategy
As the 2025 NBA Draft approached, forward Ace Bailey of Rutgers found himself at the center of attention for his unconventional choices. Among the elite prospects, Bailey made headlines by opting out of workouts and meetings with NBA teams, a strategy that distinguished him as the only American player in the draft to take such a route.
Draft Position and Management Decisions
Despite being touted as a potential top-5 pick, his decisions raised eyebrows and cast doubt on his draft position. Reports suggested that his management team advised him to steer clear of certain teams, including urging one top-5 franchise to pass on him, possibly aiming for a more favorable situation with the Washington Wizards, who held the sixth overall pick. However, this tactic did not yield the desired outcome, as the Utah Jazz selected Bailey at the fifth spot.
Post-Draft Developments
In the months following the draft, Bailey’s relationship with his manager, Omar Cooper, has reportedly soured. According to The Athletic, Bailey is now in search of new representation, having conducted interviews with potential managers but yet to make a final decision. Cooper, not a certified agent but acting as Bailey’s primary liaison, played a pivotal role in shaping the pre-draft narrative, instigating the decision to skip workouts.
Looking Ahead
Following the draft, circumstances appeared to improve for Bailey as he joined the Jazz, where he has shown moments of skill in the Summer League despite experiencing a setback due to an injury. With the departure from Cooper, Bailey seems poised to leave behind the tumultuous pre-draft saga and focus on a promising future in Utah.
