NBA Blocks Jazz From Hiring Coach’s Son
League concerned about potential conflict of interest
The Utah Jazz’s plan to bring in a guest coach for their Summer League team has been sidelined by the NBA, raising questions about the league’s policies on team personnel and potential conflicts of interest. Here’s the story.
Coaching Opportunity Nixed
Omar Cooper Jr., son of Ace Bailey’s manager, Omar Cooper, was slated to assist the Jazz in easing Bailey’s transition to the NBA. Tim MacMahon of ESPN first reported the story, but the NBA stepped in with concerns. The younger Cooper recently concluded his time at McNeese State and aims for a future in coaching.
Jazz Enthusiasm for Bailey
Despite the coaching setback, Bailey made his Summer League debut on Saturday, scoring eight points in the Jazz’s 93-89 victory over the 76ers. The Jazz are reportedly impressed with his work ethic. He also contributed seven rebounds.
Jazz coach Will Hardy told ESPN that Bailey has “an NBA body and athlete. He’s a great teammate too,”
adding that he’s “had nothing but positive reviews from all the coaches and his teammates this first week.”
Draft Day Doubts Dispelled
After the Jazz selected Bailey fifth overall in last month’s NBA draft, questions arose about his desire to play in Utah. Prior to the draft, reports suggested he preferred playing for another team.
However, in an introductory press conference late last month, Bailey addressed these rumors head-on. He told reporters he felt “blessed”
to join the Jazz. He dismissed any notion of not wanting to play for them, stating, “No, not at all. I mean, just blessed to be in this position. Not a lot of people sit in these chairs and have great teammates as I got on [here]. So I’m just blessed to be here.”
Looking Ahead
Bailey described himself as a versatile player who can “bring a lot in different ways.”
According to Statista, the average career length in the NBA is 4.5 years, highlighting the importance of making a strong early impression (Statista).
The Jazz will continue their Summer League journey on Monday night against the Grizzlies, with Bailey looking to build on his debut performance. The team hopes he will become a core player.
