Rumors are circulating around the league that Kentucky center Nerlens Noel, the leading contender to become the No. 1 overall pick in this year's draft, will be Jay-Z's first NBA client as a sports agent, NetsDaily reports (Twitter link). Jay-Z has a strong relationship with Kentucky coach John Calipari, NetsDaily also points out via Twitter. The rapper, entrepreneur and minority owner of the Nets is selling his stake in the team to found the Roc Nation Sports agency, which he hopes will represent players in baseball, basketball and football. New York Yankees second baseman Robinson Cano has already come on board.
Jay-Z must formally divest himself of his Nets share and become formally certified as an NBA agent before he can sign Noel or any other NBA player. Noel, a freshman, hasn't formally declared his intent to enter this year's draft, though it would be a shock if he didn't. The 6'11" 19-year-old with a 7'4" wingspan occupies the No. 1 spot on the draft boards of ESPN.com's Chad Ford and Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress.com.
HoopsRumors unveiled its Agency Database this week, listing the agent for nearly every player in the NBA. We'll be updating it continuously as players change agents and prospects, like Noel, enter the league.