Emoni Bates is no stranger to attention. When he was just 15 years old in 2019, he was being touted as “The Next Lebron James.” When he came out of high school, he was widely regarded as the top prospect in the nation.

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Though, after a tumultuous first year at the University of Memphis where he averaged just over 9 points per game, the Ann Arbor Native decided to transfer to Eastern Michigan, in order to be closer to home. In 22 games, his team holds a record of 6-16. However, this is not indicative of his play. So far in 21 games played this season, Bates is averaging 20.3 points per game on 42.9 percent shooting and 36 percent shooting from three.

If Bates keeps his strong play up for the rest of the year, there is no doubt in my mind that he can end up a lottery pick and up for awards.

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Image Credit: Eastern Michigan Athletics

* Originally published on February 3, 2023, by Nicholas Nathanson