In the heart of East Orange, New Jersey—where music, sports, and community are inseparably intertwined—hip-hop legends Naughty by Nature are giving back to the place that raised them.
Recently, the City of East Orange renovated a childhood staple: the local park where many memories were made, shots were taken, and legends were born. In a full-circle moment, the basketball courts were officially dedicated to Naughty by Nature, celebrating the trio’s legacy and deep community ties.
But they didn’t stop there.
Group members Vinnie Brown (Vin Rock) and KayGee joined forces with Brandon Smith and Marcus Toney El, a respected former Seton Hall Prep and Seton Hall University standout—and more importantly, a lifelong friend—to build something that would live beyond the plaque.
That “something” is Ballin’ by Nature, a new summer basketball league in collaboration with the East Orange Rec Department and Mayor Ted R. Green.
The league tips off on July 8 and runs every Tuesday and Wednesday through August 16.
This isn’t just a basketball league. It’s a movement.
“We’re creating a space where kids from East Orange can compete, grow, and be inspired,” said a source close to the project. “The energy at the park is different now. It’s become a symbol of what community really means.”
One of the league’s early visitors? None other than Ace Bailey, Utah Jazz rookie and one of the most talked-about names from the 2025 NBA Draft.
Bailey’s connection to the park—and the people behind it—runs deep. He was brought to the courts by Omar Cooper, his agent and the founder of LifeStyle Sports Agency. Cooper, like Naughty by Nature, grew up in East Orange and remains tight with the group.
Cooper is more than just an agent. He’s a mentor, connector, and for many, a guiding light in the game.
“Omar has an incredible love for sports and the game of basketball. He’s passionate about the game!” said Naughty by Nature’s Vin Rock via text. “When our group Naughty by Nature blew up with our success, we used to stop by and support O COOP! I think it’s great he’s evolved into an agent. 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!”
Cooper’s story is layered. He’s the father of Sharife Cooper, a former Auburn star drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 2022 and now playing overseas. Omar helped guide Ace Bailey’s journey from Tennessee to Georgia, bringing him into his Athletes of Tomorrow program, and later connecting him to Rutgers. He now represents Bailey, Rutgers’ Tariq Francis, and G League free agent Babatunde Akingbola—a tight, focused client roster that reflects his hands-on approach.
Much has been made of Cooper’s involvement with Bailey during the pre-draft process. While Cooper is not a certified agent with the NBPA, Bailey is also represented by GSE Worldwide, where Danny Green serves as his certified agent, working alongside Cooper as Bailey’s manager.
Still, those who know Cooper best have no doubts about his intentions or his ability.
“Ultimately, with Omar’s passion, knowledge and hustle, I see him owning an NBA team one day!!!” Vin Rock said emphatically. “So sit back and watch our brother GROW!!! SALUTE!!! We stand 10 TOES DOWN with O COOP!!!!!”
With basketballs bouncing on freshly painted courts, kids lacing up their sneakers, and community icons giving their time and love back to the next generation, East Orange is witnessing a renaissance.
This summer, it’s not just about ballin’—it’s about building legacy.
