Utah Jazz rookie forward Ace Bailey has parted ways with his manager, Omar Cooper, and is in the process of securing new representation, sources confirmed Wednesday.
The decision follows a contentious draft process for the No. 5 overall pick. In June, it was reported that Bailey’s representatives had warned a team with a top-five selection not to draft him, stating that he would refuse to report if selected. This strategy was widely believed to be an attempt to guide the former Rutgers star to the Washington Wizards, who held the sixth pick.
Despite the warning, the Jazz—in the first draft helmed by new president of basketball operations Austin Ainge—selected Bailey with the fifth pick. After a brief period of uncertainty, Bailey reported to the team without incident and participated in the NBA Summer League.
During his time at Rutgers, Bailey averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. He is expected to compete for a starting position in coach Will Hardy’s lineup this season.
The Athletic was the first to report on Bailey’s decision to change his representation.
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