Ace Bailey Joins Klutch Sports
Going into the 2025 NBA Draft, Ace Bailey was viewed as one of the most talented — and most debated — prospects in the class. Much of the conversation surrounding the former Rutgers Scarlet Knights forward centered around his unusual pre-draft process.
Bailey opted against working out for teams leading up to the draft despite being widely regarded as a top-three talent. At the time, he was represented by former agent Omar Cooper, whose handling of the process later drew criticism around the league. Before the NBA Combine, Bailey was heavily linked to the Philadelphia 76ers with the No. 3 overall pick, but he famously canceled a scheduled workout with the franchise. He also reportedly declined an invitation from the Utah Jazz.
Despite the rocky lead-up to draft night, Bailey has quickly turned the page on the narrative surrounding his early NBA journey.
On Tuesday, Klutch Sports Group officially announced that Bailey has joined the agency’s star-studded client roster. Founded by Rich Paul, Klutch represents some of the NBA’s biggest names, including LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Tyrese Maxey, and Zach LaVine.
Bailey’s move to Klutch comes after parting ways with Lifestyle Sports Agency and marks a major shift in representation for the young Jazz forward. The agency has also continued to build ties with Utah, representing players such as Jusuf Nurkić and Isaiah Collier.
Although there was early speculation that Bailey did not want to land in Utah, the 19-year-old embraced his opportunity during his rookie campaign. Bailey appeared in 72 games and made 61 starts for the Jazz, averaging 13.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game while shooting 44.3 percent from the field and 34.4 percent from three-point range.
While he wasn’t a frontrunner in the Rookie of the Year race, Bailey flashed the upside that made him one of the most highly regarded prospects in his draft class. Now entering his sophomore season with new representation and rising expectations, the young forward remains one of the most intriguing players in Utah’s rebuilding core.
Photos Credit: Klutch Sports
