Ace Bailey was selected by the Utah Jazz with the 5th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, despite reports that he did not want to play for the franchise.
The ensuing media storm surrounding Bailey’s hesitation to report to the team was compounded by Bailey’s unorthodox pre-draft process. Reports surfaced that he didn’t work out with a single team before the draft took place. Omar Cooper, Bailey’s agent and founder of Lifestyle Sports Agency, has since faced heavy criticism from the NBA world.
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In light of the new-found spotlight, a familiar face has come to defend Cooper and to make a bold prediction.
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Vinnie “Vin Rock” Brown is a part of Naughty By Nature, a legendary hip-hop group based in New Jersey. Rock is close friends with Cooper, and recently came to his defense.
“Omar has an incredible love for sports and the game of basketball. He’s passionate about the game,” Rock told Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson. “He’s learned the agency space from a player’s perspective and was hands-on in the development of his son and daughter’s careers. He’s developing new talent such as Ace Bailey and I’m sure Ace will have an incredible, long-term career!”
Rock also claimed that he sees Cooper becoming the owner of an NBA franchise one day.
“Ultimately, with Omar’s passion, knowledge and hustle, I see him owning an NBA team one day!”
While many fans and media members are questioning Cooper’s practices, it’s clear he also has plenty of support.
James Parker is an NBA writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
