Memphis Tigers freshman forward Emoni Bates has announced he will transfer to the Eastern Michigan Eagles. A surprising move, but the freshman is from the state of Michigan and will return to his home state for his sophomore season. He still likely plans to enter the 2023 NBA Draft after the upcoming season of college basketball. Bates committed to the Eastern Michigan Eagles over the Michigan Wolverines, Arkansas Razorbacks, Seton Hall Pirates, Louisville Cardinals, and DePaul Blue Demons. The former number one recruit will be the most prolific name to go through Eastern Michigan.
Memphis transfer Emoni Bates has committed to Eastern Michigan, he announced on Instagram. Former No. 1 high school prospect is heading back to his home state.
— Jeff Borzello (@jeffborzello) June 29, 2022
As a freshman with the Memphis Tigers, Emoni Bates averaged 9.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. He paired those numbers with a field goal percentage of 38.6 percent and a three-point percentage of 32.9 percent. Bates took a hiatus from the team after some frustration but returned to play in the 2022 NCAA Tournament. Because of his age, he was not eligible for the 2022 NBA Draft. Eastern Michigan will allow him to play in his home state and prepare him for the 2023 NBA Draft.
Breaking: Memphis transfer Emoni Bates has committed to Eastern Michigan, he tells @On3sports.
Story: https://t.co/tzcV6qZz2O pic.twitter.com/j7WgZuZlX5
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) June 29, 2022
Emoni Bates is full of talent and potential and this is a huge addition for the Eastern Michigan Eagles. An appearance in the 2023 NCAA Tournament would be a huge boost to the program. While it was long expected that Bates would be a lottery pick that is no longer the case. He will need to work hard this season and regain his spot in the 2023 NBA Draft Lottery.
