The upcoming season for college basketball increased in intrigue when Emoni Bates, one of the best prospects for next year, announced his commitment.
Bates trimmed his options to four after reclassifying: Oregon, Michigan State, Oregon or the G League.
The 6-foot-9 prospect announced Wednesday he will commit to Memphis, where he will play alongside Jalen Duren, one of the best centers in the upcoming class.
Bates will also be coached by NBA legend Penny Hardaway, who has been the head coach of Memphis since 2018.
Memphis hasn’t been a major threat in recent years to win it all, but with Bates and Duren coming on board, Memphis could develop into a strong team this season.
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James believes Hardaway and Bates will be a great pairing next season, as Hardaway should let Bates shine on the court:
PERFECT MATCH!! Completely agree. He can flat out relate to him on all levels and gone let him rock out 🎸
— LeBron James (@KingJames) August 26, 2021
Since Bates will not turn 18 until January, he cannot enter his name for the 2022 NBA draft. He can either play two years in college or move to the G League after a year in Memphis, then declare for the 2023 NBA draft.
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