A single tweet from the NFL’s Dez Bryant has thrust the rookie, Ace Bailey, into the spotlight once again, casting doubt on the quality of advice guiding the young player after his failed 2025 NBA Draft strategy.
Bryant’s reference to a controversial video featuring Omar Cooper, as Bailey’s unofficial advisor, came after Cooper was seen shirtless with Jay-Z playing, a moment the 36-year-old dismissed sharply.
“Somebody go save Ace Bailey man.. Hell naw,” Bryant commented, he expressed profound concern for the rookie amid fears he could be mismanaged as he prepares to become a professional.
Bailey entered the 2025 NBA Draft amid lofty expectations and strong opinions about his ideal landing spots, yet his pre-draft strategy went awry, culminating in an unexpected selection by the Utah Jazz at fifth overall.
Reports suggest the 18-year-old declined workouts with the Philadelphia 76ers and Jazz, hoping instead for a pick in Brooklyn or Washington but it backfired dramatically on the teenager.
Cooper, a long-time mentor who assisted Bailey at Rutgers, reportedly played a pivotal role in these decisions, despite the fact he lacks NBPA certification and cannot legally represent Ace or negotiate with teams.
Still, insiders claim Cooper’s influence was significant as he encouraged Bailey to avoid Utah and Philadelphia, aiming for a setting where the rookie could be the central figure of a franchise.
In contrast, Utah’s leadership remained resolute and have told the youngster he is not going to be traded. He is expected to report to Jazz training camp this weekend, even if it conflicts with his personal preferences.
Bryant not alone in his asserations of Bailey
Bryant, no stranger to leverage tactics from his NFL career when he skipped workouts to secure a Dallas Cowboys extension, recognizes when a player overestimates his bargaining power. His blunt message is clear: Talent alone is not enough.
Additionally, Colin Cowherd joined the critique, targeting Bailey’s chosen counsel as he argued that poor advice cost Bailey a potential No. 3 selection and nearly $9 million in maximum rookie earnings.
He emphasized the lack of mature, certified guidance as making bad decisions for Ace, although he appreciates his talent as he was ranked near the top of his class, trailing only Cooper Flagg.
“Ace Bailey is this kinda kid,” Cowherd said on The Herd with Colin Cowherd. “That, like, his representative, his agent, told him, he told one of the top five teams not to pick him…
“Where are the adults to help this kid? He’s getting horrible advice. Unfortunately, Ace, dad was in and out of his life. Well, you got mom. You got other people.”
The rookie’s camp officially lists Adie von Gontard and Daniel Green as agents, yet Bailey’s public hesitation to play for Utah sparked questions about whose voice he truly follows.
Now, he must navigate his first NBA chapter under scrutiny. Utah may offer a structured environment with veteran mentorship, but if Bailey remains resistant, his development could stall.
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