Emoni Bates decision post-high school has taken a few different roads but it seems to be nearing a final decision here soon. Bates has announced he will be leaving the class of 2022 to reclassify to the 2021 class and will pick between three schools and the G League as well. He was originally committed to Michigan State before he decommitted back in April. The Spartans are once again one of the three schools he is considering along with Oregon and Memphis.
One important note in regards to his decision is the fact that Bates will be at his destination for two years as he won’t be eligible for the 2022 NBA Draft. Bates will not turn 19 until 2023 making someone who will need to spend two years in college if that is ultimately his decision. One route that could be interesting is if he splits those two years into one in college and the other in the G League.
Bates will not turn 19 until Jan. 28, 2023 – which means he is not eligible for next year’s NBA Draft.
Bates told me he will take this year by year and re-evaluate after this season wherever he goes, but there is a chance that if he goes to college, he’ll be there for 2 years. https://t.co/83aa2Olo8W
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) August 4, 2021
Bates as a player is a smooth scorer that is comfortable at all three levels with the ability to rise over defenders. He’s a solid passer too but his most value comes from his ability to the ball in the basket. He’s got great athleticism which should translate to the defensive end whenever he decides to fully commit to being a great defender. Bates should translate well immediately to the college game or adjust quickly to playing against men in the G League.
