Emoni Bates has another big scoring night in EMU’s OT thriller with Ball State
Emoni Bates had another hot scoring night for Eastern Michigan men’s basketball team on Friday night. The Ypsilanti native scored a game-high 35 points, though in defeat as the Eagles saw their two-game win streak end, 91-90, to Ball State in overtime. Bates notched his fourth 30-point game of the season and his third game with 35 or more points. In addition to Bates’ performance, Tyson Acuff added 18 points and Noah Farrakhan chipped in with 16 points and six rebounds. Payton Sparks led Ball State with 22 points to help the Cardinals move to 16-7 overall and 7-3 in the MAC.
mlive.comEmoni Bates ranked in Top 50 best available players for 2023 NBA Draft
YPSILANTI – After years of speculation, debates and hype, Emoni Bates is finally eligible for the NBA Draft. The 18-year-old Ypsilanti native and Eastern Michigan sophomore could hear his name called when the draft begins on June 22. Bates is among the Top 50 best available players by ESPN, coming in at No. In Tuesday’s 84-79 loss to Toledo, Bates scored a career-high 43 points, including 29 straight in the first half. But if Bates continues to play like he did on Tuesday, that might not even matter.
mlive.comEmoni Bates has historic performance for Eastern Michigan against Toledo
TOLEDO – It didn’t take long for Emoni Bates to rebound offensively in an historic way on Tuesday. After scoring just seven points in a loss to Northern Illinois on Saturday, the Ypsilanti native bounced back with an emphatic performance for Eastern Michigan’s basketball team against Toledo. Despite missing the game-tying 3-point shot with 15 seconds left in regulation, Bates still came up big when EMU needed him to in the second half. Bates got some help in the second half as Noah Farrakhan scored all of his 14 points in the second half, though Farrakhan fouled out late in the contest. Still, Eastern Michigan suffered its fifth straight loss on the year and fell to 4-16 overall and 1-6 in the MAC.
mlive.comGodwin Heights grads lead WMU men’s hoops past EMU, Emoni Bates
“He’s used to it,” WMU head coach Dwayne Stephens said of Norman’s play. Western Michigan Broncos guard Lamar Norman Jr. (11) attempts a free-throw against Eastern Michigan during the second half at Read Field House on the campus of Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com“The thing that really gave us problems was Norman,” EMU head coach Stan Heath said. We really didn’t want to foul him, but he wanted the ball in his hands, and Norman was the difference. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com“I’m really proud of him,” Norman added of his fellow 2018 Godwin Heights grad.
mlive.comEmoni Bates rebounds with second double-double to lead EMU basketball past CMU
YPSILANTI – Emoni Bates wasted little time bouncing back on Saturday with one of his best performances of the season. The Eastern Michigan sophomore basketball standout recorded his second double-double of the year to help the Eagles knock off rival Central Michigan. CMU was led by Markus Harding, who finished with 15 points, while Brian Taylor added 13 points and 10 rebounds and Reggie Bass chipped in with 11 points. After trailing 30-18 at halftime, EMU outscored the Chippewas 44-26 in the second half to secure the win. Central Michigan (6-9, 1-1 MAC) will next face Northern Illinois on Tuesday.
mlive.comEmoni Bates, Eastern Michigan men’s struggle in MAC basketball opening loss
Just days after having his best performance as a collegiate player, Emoni Bates’ showing on Tuesday wasn’t enough to help Eastern Michigan’s men’s basketball team secure a win. The Ypsilanti native scored a career-high 36 points in a loss to South Carolina on Friday but shot just 2-for-14 and finished with 15 points in EMU’s 91-65 to Bowling Green in its Mid-American Conference opener. While Bates led EMU, Tyson Acuff added 14 points and Colin Golson chipped in with nine points for the Eagles, who fell to 3-11 overall. Five Bowling Green players scored in double figures, led by Leon Ayers III, who finished with a game-high 24 points. EMU will try to snap a 2-game losing streak when it takes on Central Michigan on Saturday.
mlive.comEmoni Bates, Tyson Acuff deliver as EMU basketball snaps losing streak
YPSILANTI – Eastern Michigan’s men’s basketball team desperately needed a win on Sunday and Emoni Bates and Tyson Acuff came through. The tandem combined for 38 points to help the Eagles hold off Detroit Mercy, 79-77, at home to snap a 3-game losing streak. Bates, an Ypsilanti native and former No. 1 overall high school prep recruit, scored 19 points to go along with six rebounds and two steals in the win. Yusuf Jihad added 17 points for EMU and five rebounds and Noah Farrakhan recorded 11 points and four rebounds.
mlive.comEmoni Bates sentenced to probation in aftermath of felony gun charges
Emoni Bates received 18 months probation Wednesday following a plea deal after the dismissal of two felony gun charges stemming from a September traffic stop.. His record can be expunged following the completion of his probation, according to The Detroit News. Deputies stopped Bates’ vehicle at 10:43 p.m. on Sept. 18, after he failed to stop at the intersection of Nottingham Drive and Clark Road in Superior Township,. During the stop, a firearm was discovered in the vehicle, and Bates was taken into custody,He was suspended Sept. 19 by EMU, and then was reinstated after his plea agreement. MORE:Emoni Bates having bounce-back year despite EMU basketball’s team strugglesEmoni Bates scores 30 in Eastern Michigan debut, draws NBA comparisons in near-upset of Michigan
mlive.comEmoni Bates having bounce-back year despite EMU basketball’s team struggles
YPSILANTI -- Though it was a struggle last night, Emoni Bates has shown improvement this season following a roller coaster freshman year. Bates scored nine points on 2-for-6 shooting and was held scoreless in the first half of the loss dropping his scoring average from 21.5 to 20.1. He also ranks first in the Mid-American Conference in total points (181) but is second behind Western Michigan’s Lamar Norman Jr. in points per game average (20.3). Despite a bounce-back season overall for Bates, however, the Eagles have not fared well this season as a collective unit. There is still a long season ahead of Bates, and time for EMU to right the ship.
mlive.comProsecutor explains why it took seven weeks to issue charges against Michigan DT Mazi Smith
ANN ARBOR, MI - It took about seven weeks for Michigan defensive tackle Mazi Smith to be charged with a felony weapons charge based on an Oct. 7 incident. Eastern Michigan basketball star Emoni Bates saw a felony weapons charge authorized the day after a Sept. 18 arrest by Ann Arbor police. Read more: Michigan DT Mazi Smith charged with carrying a concealed weaponBates was arrested at the scene of the Sept. 18 incident, Savit said. His office received the report on the Smith incident from the Ann Arbor Police Department on Oct. 14, he said. Multiple messages have been left with the Ann Arbor Police Department requesting details on the Smith incident.
mlive.comEmoni Bates, Noah Farrakhan shine to help EMU men’s basketball snap losing streak
Emoni Bates picked up where he left off from his first double-double performance in the previous game and Noah Farrakhan had his best showing to help Eastern Michigan’s men’s basketball team end its losing woes on Wednesday. 1 overall high school basketball recruit, scored a game-high 26 points and Farrakhan scored a season-high 25 in EMU’s 80-68 win over Florida International, which snapped a 6-game losing streak. Bates extended his streak of double-digit scoring performances, while Farrakhan scored 20 or more points for the first time this season. Dashon Gittens and Artuo Dean led FIU with 14 points apiece and John Williams Jr. finished with 13 points. EMU improved to 2-6 overall and will next host Florida Atlantic on Sunday.
mlive.comEmoni Bates leads all scorers in Eastern Michigan’s blowout loss to Bradley
It took some time, but Emoni Bates found his rhythm on Tuesday night, though it wasn’t enough to keep Eastern Michigan’s men’s basketball team from suffering its second straight loss. Fresh off a 30-point performance against Michigan on Friday, the 6-foot-9 wing scored a game-high 20 points in EMU’s 89-61 loss to Bradley in the team’s first true road game of the season. 1 overall recruit did find some consistency in the second half as he shot 6-for-6 and finished the game with a team-high six rebounds. In addition to Bates’ performance, Colin Golson Jr. finished with 11 points for the Eagles, who fell to 1-2 on the season. Malevy Leons led Bradley with 16 points and six rebounds.
mlive.comMichigan basketball jumps 2 spots in AP top 25, will travel to Brooklyn for in-season tournament
The Michigan Wolverines men’s basketball team is off to a hot start as they’re 2-0 on the season, and the Associated Press took notice as the men in maize jumped up two spots to No. 20 in the in-season 2022-23 AP Top 25.
Emoni Bates scores 30 in Eastern Michigan debut, draws NBA comparisons in near-upset of Michigan
Throughout Friday night’s game between Eastern Michigan and Michigan, Bates looked like the players who normally take the floor at Little Caesars Arena, home of the NBA’s Detroit Pistons. In his Eastern Michigan debut, Bates dazzled the crowd and impressed players and coaches on both sides, recapturing the magic that made him the No. It wasn’t quite enough to pull off the upset, as Michigan won 88-83 in an early-season game that felt much bigger. Michigan head coach Juwan Howard knew what Bates was capable of but was still captivated by the performance. Eastern Michigan has another dynamic shot maker in sophomore point guard Noah Farrakhan, who scored 19 points.
mlive.comMichigan basketball outlasts Eastern Michigan in thriller in Detroit
Michigan outlasted Eastern Michigan 88-83, overcoming an eight-point second-half deficit to move to 2-0. The high-scoring affair was a stark contrast to the last times the teams met, a 45-42 Eastern Michigan victory in Ann Arbor on Dec. 9, 2014. Michigan was not good from the foul line (25-for-40), but hit some clutch free throws down the stretch to seal the victory. With 29 seconds left, Williams was whistled for a foul, much to Juwan Howard’s disbelief. “He told me I was right but they still got two free throws,” Howard said to nobody in particular.
mlive.comHow to watch Michigan vs. Eastern Michigan: TV channel, tipoff time, live stream
The first of five is Friday night against Eastern Michigan at Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena. Michigan beat Purdue Fort Wayne 75-56; Eastern Michigan topped Wayne State 75-66, though Emoni Bates did not play (more about that below). Watch Michigan basketball on FuboTVThe Wolverines are 21-3 all-time against Eastern Michigan, but did lose the most recent matchup, 45-42 in Ann Arbor, during the 2014-15 season. 22 Michigan Wolverines (1-0) vs. Eastern Michigan Eagles (1-0)Where: Little Caesars Arena (Detroit); capacity: 20,491When: Friday, November 11, 9:05 p.m. ET (possible delay to 9:10)Point spread: Michigan -18.5Tickets: TicketMaster ($15)Follow: Andrew KahnHow to WatchTV: ESPNU (Jordan Bernfield, Robbie Hummel)Stream: Watch & DVR College Basketball Live | fuboTV: Stream live TV with ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN & top channels without cable.
mlive.comEastern Michigan vs. #22 Michigan basketball predictions for NCAAB 11/11
They will now welcome Eastern Michigan and former Michigan State Spartan, Emoni Bates, to Ann Arbor Friday night, and our experts have Eastern Michigan vs. Michigan predictions. EASTERN MICHIGAN VS. MICHIGAN PREDICTION: Eastern Michigan +18.5 (-118 at FanDuel)Click here to sign up at FanDuel Sportsbook in time to fade or follow any of our experts’ Eastern Michigan vs. Michigan predictions. Eastern Michigan vs. Michigan basketball predictionsThe Eastern Michigan Eagles will visit the Michigan Wolverines Friday night, and we predict that the visitors can cover the +18.5 spread currently available at FanDuel Sportsbook. Enter your email here:Eastern Michigan vs. Michigan basketball pick featuring Eastern Michigan +18.5Michigan’s defense played extremely well in their season opener, and Hunter Dickinson had his way against smaller opponents. MORE SPORTS BETTING STORIESLions vs. Bears prediction, spread pick and NFL odds for Sunday 11/13UFC 281 predictions Adesanya vs. Pereira best bets & main card picksNebraska vs. Michigan football predictions, odds & lines for SaturdayFanDuel promo code, picks and prediction for Rutgers vs. Michigan StateFREE TO PLAY CONTESTSThink you know Detroit Lions football?
mlive.comEmoni Bates to make his Eastern Michigan debut against Michigan in Detroit
ANN ARBOR -- Michigan will play Eastern Michigan on Friday night in a showcase game for local superstar Emoni Bates. Instead, he will make his Eastern Michigan debut in an intriguing early-season matchup with No. Eastern Michigan suspended him, then reinstated him after a plea deal led to the charges getting dropped. An Eastern Michigan spokesperson called it a “coach’s decision” and added that Bates would play against the Wolverines. After getting the Michigan job in the spring of 2019, Howard briefly recruited Bates before the star committed to Michigan State.
mlive.comEmoni Bates expected to play vs. Michigan after missing EMU’s season opener
YPSILANTI – Emoni Bates did not suit up for Eastern Michigan’s regular season opening win over Wayne State on Monday but is expected to be back in action Friday against No. Bates, who played in EMU’s exhibition game on Oct. 27, was in attendance but did not play against the Warriors due to a coach’s decision, Alex Jewell, EMU’s director of athletic media relations, confirmed to MLive Tuesday morning. “Emoni Bates will not play (Monday),” said EMU head coach Stan Heath in a statement released by EMU. 1 overall high school basketball prospect scored 27 points in his debut with EMU against Grand Valley State during the exhibition contest last month. Bates and the Eagles will travel to face the Wolverines at 9 p.m. on Friday at Little Caesars Arena.
mlive.comEastern Michigan men’s basketball wins regular season opener without Emoni Bates
YPSILANTI – Emoni Bates was in attendance but did not play in Eastern Michigan’s men’s basketball’s regular season opening win over Wayne State, 75-66, on Monday night. The former 5-star recruit sat on the bench in his EMU jumpsuit but did not see game action. EMU led by 15 at halftime and were led by Orlando Overjoy, who finished with a game-high 18 points. 1 overall high school basketball prospect in the 2022 recruiting class before reclassifying to the 2021 class and committing to Memphis. MORE:Emoni Bates showcases potential in Eastern Michigan basketball debutEastern Michigan adds third former Mr. Basketball finalist in less than a week
mlive.comEmoni Bates showcases potential in Eastern Michigan basketball debut
YPSILANTI – More than 2,000 people were on hand to watch Emoni Bates and the new-look Eastern Michigan men’s basketball team take on Grand Valley State in an exhibition game to start the season on Thursday. 1 overall high school recruit and Memphis transfer scored a game-high 27 points in his debut with the Eagles to help them roll to an 85-69 win. During his time at Memphis, Bates averaged 9.7 points on 38% shooting in 18 games played. Prior to joining Memphis, Bates was ranked as the No. He spent his final high school season at Ypsi Prep Academy, a school created by his father, Elgin.
mlive.comEmoni Bates issues first public statement since plea deal on gun charge, EMU reinstatement
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Emoni Bates spoke publicly Wednesday for the first time since his reinstatement to Eastern Michigan’s basketball team following a plea deal in exchange for having felony gun charges against the star athlete dismissed last week. The Ypsilanti native was suspended from EMU’s team the following day. Haney told ESPN last week that Bates was expected to enter a plea deal in exchange for the dismissal of two felony gun charges. The Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office declined to comment on the case and Haney could not be reached for comment. Bates apologized for his actions in his statement and said he hoped his mistake would be a learning experience for others.
mlive.comHello, Ann Arbor: City renters rejoice; parking structure safety reviewed after suicide
Every year, it seems like half of Ann Arbor moves out and a new half moves in. The land, once the site of a sand and gravel quarry, was donated to a conservation group in 2015. That’s what caught our eye in Ann Arbor this week. John Counts is one of the News Leaders for MLive/The Ann Arbor News where he started as a police and court reporter in 2012. MORE ‘HELLO, ANN ARBOR’:Hello, Ann Arbor: 2 public health hazards involving human waste; no turning on red lightsHello, Ann Arbor: Ranked best place to raise a family; a Wolverine fan’s dream padHello, Ann Arbor: Emoni Bates arrested on gun charges; raising local meatHello, Ann Arbor: Local teacher dies in crash; shroom fest is here
mlive.comEmoni Bates to be reinstated by EMU basketball
YPSILANTI – Eastern Michigan basketball star Emoni Bates has been reinstated immediately as a student and athlete, EMU athletic director Scott Wetherbee said on Thursday. “In accordance with EMU policies, Mr. Bates is immediately reinstated to all athletic and campus activities.”Bates’ attorney Steve Haney told ESPN that Bates was expected to enter a plea deal in exchange for the dismissal of two felony gun charges. The Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office declined to comment on the case Thursday. Bates had been suspended by EMU since Sept. 19, the day after he was arrested and charged with the two felony gun charges. 1 overall high school basketball recruit in the 2022 class before reclassifying to the 2021 class and signing with Memphis.
mlive.comHello, Ann Arbor: Emoni Bates arrested on gun charges; raising local meat
And that crisp autumn air can only mean one thing tonight -- high school football. Wickliffe highlights many of the Ann Arbor area’s top performers each week. That’s what caught our eye in Ann Arbor this week. John Counts is one of the News Leaders for MLive/The Ann Arbor News where he started as a police and court reporter in 2012. MORE ‘HELLO, ANN ARBOR’:Hello, Ann Arbor: Local teacher dies in crash; shroom fest is hereHello, Ann Arbor: First homicide of the year; $3 movie night meleeHello, Ann Arbor: UM football is back; man takes on lack of rural internet accessHello, Ann Arbor: UM students return; troubled retail development changes course
mlive.comEmoni Bates suspended by Eastern Michigan basketball following arrest on gun charges
YPSILANTI – Eastern Michigan suspended basketball star Emoni Bates Monday afternoon following his arrest on two felony gun charges. “We are aware of a situation involving men’s basketball student-athlete Emoni Bates,” EMU’s statement read. “Eastern Michigan University takes all allegations of this nature very seriously. Bates committed to play for Eastern Michigan on June 29 after transferring from Memphis. 1 overall high school basketball recruit for the 2022 class before reclassifying to the 2021 class and signing with Memphis.
mlive.comEMU basketball star Emoni Bates facing gun charges after arrest in Washtenaw County
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Eastern Michigan University basketball star Emoni Bates pleaded not guilty Monday afternoon to two felony gun charges. He was arraigned by Washtenaw County District Court Magistrate Elisha Fink on Sept. 19. During the stop, a firearm was discovered in the vehicle, and Bates was taken into custody, Jackson said. “This is his first brush with the law.”Haney said Bates posed no threat to society, though Fink disagreed, stating the charges against Bates were inherently dangerous. “Eastern Michigan University takes all allegations very seriously.
mlive.comEmoni Bates officially joins Eastern Michigan’s basketball team
YPSILANTI – Emoni Bates is officially a member of Eastern Michigan’s basketball team. The program made the announcement on Tuesday, nearly two months after the former Memphis basketball player committed to the Eagles in late June.
mlive.comHello, Ann Arbor: Where to celebrate the Fourth of July; Emoni Bates comes home
Here’s a few highlights: The Ann Arbor Jaycees Parade is 10 to 11 a.m. Monday, July 4. Roundabout construction closing busy intersection outside Ann Arbor for 8 weeksA four-way stop intersection west of Ann Arbor that becomes congested a peak travel times is closing for much of the summer so a roundabout can be installed there. Police investigating fatal shooting in Ypsilanti Township neighborhoodA man was killed Tuesday morning in a shooting in an Ypsilanti Township neighborhood. About “Hello, Ann Arbor”: Each week, we deliver the big headlines straight to your inbox via our Friday 3@3 Ann Arbor newsletter. MORE ‘HELLO, ANN ARBOR’:Hello, Ann Arbor: Food truck season already hits a bump; a local pizza we lovedHello, Ann Arbor: High-density rezoning discussed for west side; Border-to-Border Trail updatesHello, Ann Arbor: Help us explore local dining and drinks; CJ Carr chooses Notre DameHello, Ann Arbor: That’s one funky duck; pilot with local ties is real ‘Top Gun’Hello, Ann Arbor: Why the grass here is so shaggy; popular mountain bike loops get connectedHello, Ann Arbor: Another tragic bridge-jumping death; prom at the Big House
mlive.comCan Emoni Bates push Eastern Michigan to the NCAA Tournament?
Emoni Bates, an Ypsilanti native, announced on Wednesday (June 29) that he was transferring to Eastern Michigan. His commitment is still a big coup for Eastern Michigan, which has not brought in a top-100 recruit since the 247sports database started in 2003. Eastern Michigan loses several of its rotation players from last season but brings back its leading scorer and distributor, point guard Noah Farrakhan. Bates, while playing for Lincoln High School, had many memorable games and what was then called the Eastern Michigan University Convocation Center. It wouldn’t be the first time Eastern Michigan brought in a talented transfer who won big.
mlive.comFormer Ypsilanti star Emoni Bates lists Michigan basketball in top 6, sets June announcement date
Former star Ypsilanti high schooler and current No. 1-ranked transfer player Emoni Bates recently entered the transfer portal, where he named the Michigan Wolverines one of his top six destinations ahead of the 2022 college basketball season.
Emoni Bates has Michigan among finalists, but there may not be mutual interest
Emoni Bates, a star basketball player from Ypsilanti who recently finished his freshman season of college at Memphis, is in the transfer portal. Bates’ “top six,” in alphabetical order, includes Arkansas, DePaul, Eastern Michigan, Louisville, Michigan, and Seton Hall. Howard did not get the Michigan job until May of 2019, at which point Michigan State had already established itself as the frontrunner. The Bates-Howard relationship could be why Michigan made Bates’ finalists. Addressing Bates’ finalists, CBS Sports’ Matt Norlander wrote, “From what I gathered over the weekend, a few of these schools aren’t truly involved with Emoni Bates.
mlive.comEmoni Bates lists Michigan and EMU among Top 6 schools he could transfer to in 2022
Emoni Bates could be nearing a decision on where he will continue his basketball career. Bates listed Arkansas, Michigan, Louisville, Seton Hall, Eastern Michigan and DePaul as his top six schools via his Instagram account. The 18-year-old Ypsilanti native entered the transfer portal after a rollercoaster freshman year at Memphis. MORE:Where will Emoni Bates play basketball next season? Emoni Bates enters transfer portal after freshman season with Memphis basketballWhy Emoni Bates could still have bright future despite rollercoaster freshman season at MemphisWhat’s next for Emoni Bates after freshman season at Memphis?
mlive.comWhere will Emoni Bates play basketball next season?
Emoni Bates has a decision to make after entering the transfer portal nearly two weeks ago. The former Memphis basketball freshman and No. 1 high school recruit, entered the portal on April 16 following a rollercoaster season with the Tigers that was impacted by offensive struggles and injuries.
mlive.comEmoni Bates enters transfer portal after freshman season with Memphis basketball
Emoni Bates will not be returning to Memphis’ basketball team for his sophomore season. He was considered a top pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, but his draft stock took a hit in the eyes of some NBA draft analysts after this season. Prior to choosing Memphis, Bates had narrowed his list of future options to Oregon, Michigan State and the NBA G League. NBA draft analyst Rashad Phillips told MLive during a phone interview last month that he still sees a bright future for Bates. “Once his physicals match up with his skills down the line, then you’re going to get the player that everybody’s expecting him to be.”MORE:Why Emoni Bates could still have bright future despite rollercoaster freshman season at MemphisWhat’s next for Emoni Bates after freshman season at Memphis?
mlive.comWhat’s next for Emoni Bates after freshman season at Memphis?
There are still questions surrounding the future of Emoni Bates after his rollercoaster freshman season with Memphis basketball came to an end Saturday in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Because he’s only 18, the Ypsilanti native will have to wait an additional year before he’s eligible to declare for the NBA Draft. Bates’ freshman season was filled with hype as he joined a Memphis team that had fellow freshman and former 5-star recruit Jalen Duren in addition to other talented players with expectations of a deep tournament run. Bates capped his freshman season averaging 9.7 points on 38% shooting from the field with 3.3 rebounds per game, though he finished with more turnovers (42) than assists (23). Once considered a top pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Bates’ draft stock took a hit in the eyes of some NBA draft analysts after this season.
mlive.comEmoni Bates hits only shot taken in return to Memphis basketball’s lineup during NCAA Tourney win
Emoni Bates made the most of the limited time he saw in his return to the court on Thursday. The Memphis basketball freshman played just three minutes in the Tigers’ 64-53 win over Boise State in the NCAA Tournament opener -- though he nailed the only shot he took. The 6-foot-9 wing had been out since Jan. 27, missing Memphis’ previous 12 games with a back injury. There were questions whether the former 5-star recruit would return to the lineup at all this season, but Bates practiced with the team on Wednesday and suited up on Thursday. MORE:Why Emoni Bates could still have bright future despite rollercoaster freshman season at MemphisEmoni Bates not ruled out of NCAA Tournament for Memphis basketball
mlive.comEmoni Bates dressed for Memphis basketball’s NCAA Tournament opener vs. Boise State
For the first time in more than six weeks, Emoni Bates is in uniform for Memphis’ men’s basketball team. The 5-star recruit was reportedly dressed and going through warmups ahead of Thursday’s NCAA Tournament game against Boise State, but it is still uncertain whether the 6-foot-9 wing will play. Bates practiced with the Tigers on Wednesday, though Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway said he wasn’t sure if Bates would return to action for the first-round matchup scheduled for 1:45 p.m.“I don’t know, to be very honest with you,” Hardaway told reporters. In 16 games on the floor, the Ypsilanti native averaged 10.4 points, 10.4 points on 38% shooting from the field to go along with 3.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game. MORE:Why Emoni Bates could still have bright future despite rollercoaster freshman season at MemphisEmoni Bates not ruled out of NCAA Tournament for Memphis basketball
mlive.comWhy Emoni Bates could still have bright future despite rollercoaster freshman season at Memphis
At the age of 15, Emoni Bates graced the cover of Sports Illustrated with expectations of being the next generational talent in basketball. Three years later, a rollercoaster final high school season and a turbulent freshman campaign at the collegiate level has raised some questions on whether the Ypsilanti native can live up to the hype that once dubbed him next in line to be an NBA great.
mlive.comEmoni Bates’ return to Memphis basketball’s lineup for NCAA Tournament not yet ruled out
Unlike the American Athletic Conference Tournament where Emoni Bates didn’t travel with Memphis’ men’s basketball team, the former 5-star recruit did make the trip to Portland for the NCAA Tournament. “I don’t know, to be very honest with you,” Hardaway told reporters during a press conference on Wednesday. Elgin Bates, Emoni’s father, also told The Commercial Appeal that Emoni had been working to return to the lineup. Memphis has gone 10-2 in the 12 games Bates has missed since Jan. 27, playing its way into the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2014. MORE:Has Emoni Bates played his last game for Memphis basketball this season?
mlive.comReport: Emoni Bates won’t play in AAC Tournament for Memphis basketball
Don’t expect to see Emoni Bates on the floor for Memphis’ men’s basketball team during the American Athletic Conference Tournament this weekend. Since Bates last played, Memphis has gone 8-1 and is projected to be a lock in the NCAA Tournament after starting the season 11-8. The Ypsilanti native reclassified from the 2023 class to the 2022 class and joined Memphis’ team over the summer. MORE:Has Emoni Bates played his last game for Memphis basketball this season? Emoni Bates’ father refutes report son’s future with Memphis basketball is in doubt
mlive.comHas Emoni Bates played his last game for Memphis basketball this season?
The questions surrounding Emoni Bates’ status with Memphis basketball have continued to come up and don’t appear to be going away anytime soon. Bates, a former 5-star recruit and once touted as the No. 1 prospect in the 2023 recruiting class, did not play a game for the Tigers in February as he dealt with what has been described as a back injury by his father, Elgin Bates, that has kept him sidelined into March.
mlive.comMemphis’ Penny Hardaway rips media after latest loss: ‘Stop asking me stupid ----ing questions’
Things are getting ugly for Penny Hardaway and the Memphis basketball team. “I think the one thing I can say to this media because this media gets kinda f---ed up sometimes when it comes to me. Stop asking me stupid f---ing questions about if I feel like I can do something,” Hardaway said. “If I had my roster like they did, then I feel like I can do whatever I want to do. Still, Memphis boasts more pure talent than most other teams in the country, leading many pundits to criticize Hardaway for the outburst.
mlive.comEmoni Bates bounces back with career performance in return to Memphis’ lineup vs. Cincinnati
Emoni Bates was back in Memphis’ lineup on Sunday and didn’t disappoint in his return to the court. The 5-star recruit and 17-year-old freshman, scored his 12 points in 21 minutes on 3-of-6 shooting from the field and 2-of-3 shooting from the 3-point line. It was the first time Bates scored in double figures in the past four games. The 6-foot-9 forward also had a career-high seven rebounds and a career-high six assists to just one turnover in the victory. Bates is now averaging 10.9 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 11 games this season.
mlive.comEmoni Bates remains out for Memphis basketball with finger injury
Emoni Bates continues to nurse a finger injury that has kept him out of Memphis’ lineup the past two games and will keep him out of Tuesday’s matchup against Tulsa. It is unclear when the Ypsilanti native and star freshman injured his right finger, but he hasn’t played in a game since Dec. 14 – Memphis also missed two games in December due to COVID-19 issues after its Dec. 14 game. Bates missed Memphis’ loss to Tulane on Dec. 29 and the team’s win over Wichita State on Jan. 1. Stadium Basketball Analyst Jeff Goodman reported on Twitter Tuesday that Bates was still dealing with pain and swelling in his finger, which would keep him out of the game against Tulsa. In 10 games this season, Bates has averaged 10.8 points and 2.8 rebounds on 37% shooting from the field.
mlive.comEmoni Bates’ offensive struggles continue 10 games into freshman year at Memphis
After a promising start to the season, Emoni Bates’ progress on the offensive end has slowed some 10 games into his first college basketball season. The 17-year-old Ypsilanti native and superstar Memphis freshman has struggled offensively as of late, which continued during the team’s 92-78 win over No. In his 10th game, Bates finished with seven points on 1-for-7 shooting with three turnovers to one assist. He played just 15 minutes in Memphis’ win and did not play the final 14 minutes of the second half. After averaging 16 points on 58% shooting in his first three games, Bates has averaged 8.5 points on 29% shooting from the field and 16% from the 3-point line and has recorded more turnovers (16) than assists (5) in the past seven games.
mlive.comEmoni Bates named AAC Freshman of the Week after first two games
It didn’t take long for Emoni Bates to receive recognition for his start with Memphis’ basketball team. The 5-star basketball phenom was named American Athletic Conference Freshman of the Week on Monday for his performances during his first two games with the Tigers last week. Bates, a 6-foot-9 forward from Ypsilanti, averaged 16 points, four rebounds and 2.5 assists, while shooting 9-of-16 from the field and 6-of-12 from the 3-point line for the Tigers in wins over Tennessee Tech and North Carolina Central. The standout basketball player was voted to the preseason All-AAC Second Team prior to the start of the season and is also on the Naismith Trophy and John R. Wooden Award watch lists. Memphis is scheduled to face Saint Louis on Tuesday.
mlive.comEmoni Bates leads all scorers to help Memphis basketball win season opener
Emoni Bates began his Memphis basketball journey with a solid showing in the season opener against Tennessee Tech on Tuesday. The Ypsilanti native and 5-star recruit scored a game-high 17 points to help the No. 12-ranked Memphis men’s basketball team open the 2021-2022 season with an 89-65 victory. The 17-year-old phenom wasted little time getting going for the Tigers as his first regular season shot was a 3-point basket that gave Memphis a 9-0 lead. Memphis will next host North Carolina Central on Saturday.
mlive.comEmoni Bates scores 12 points in Memphis basketball debut
Emoni Bates made his first appearance for Memphis’ basketball team on Sunday. The 6-foot-9 phenom freshman scored 12 points in an exhibition contest against Lane College, which the Tigers won, 88-49. Bates chose Memphis in August after reclassifying from the 2022 recruiting class to the 2021 class. 3 recruit in the 2021 class and was ranked No. 1 in the 2022 class before reclassifying.
mlive.comEmoni Bates inks deal with agent Raymond Brothers and Roc Nation Sports for NIL representation
Emoni Bates has taken the first step toward capitalizing on his Name, Image and Likeness as he begins his college basketball journey. The Memphis basketball freshman phenom and Ypsilanti native signed with agent Raymond Brothers and Roc Nation Sports for NIL representation, Roc Nation Sports announced via Twitter Wednesday morning. Brothers serves as the President of Roc Nation Sports’ basketball division, which was founded in 2013 by music mogul Shawn “Jay Z” Carter. Roc Nation Sports represents NBA stars Kyrie Irving and LaMelo Ball as well as NFL running backs Saquon Barkley and Leonard Fournette, among other professional athletes. Memphis will open its season with an exhibition game against Lemoyne-Owen on Sunday, Oct. 24 and will begin regular season play versus Tennessee Tech on Nov. 9.
mlive.com5-star recruit Emoni Bates of Ypsilanti Lincoln commits to Michigan State
YPSILANTI, Mich. Emoni Bates, a forward for Ypsilanti Lincoln High School and the top player in the class of 2022 has verbally committed to Michigan State as of now. He stressed as of now due to the ever-changing rules of eligibility for players to go to the NBA right out of high school, options to go to the G League or even the chance to play professionally overseas. As a high school freshman, Bates led Lincoln High to its first state championship, then led it to a 19-3 record and a spot in the District 18 state tournament final against Ann Arbor Huron. Bates also announced his plans to attend a prep school ran by his father for his last two years of high school. They plan on playing a national schedule against the best high school teams in the country.
Best basketball prodigy since LeBron? Why Emoni Bates is such a big deal
With one unexpected sentence, Emoni Bates set the basketball world and Twitter on fire Monday afternoon. 1 high school basketball player in the Class of 2022, set off a national reaction of various emotions. Bates played his first two years of high school at Ypsilanti Lincoln High School. Another feeling was elation, particularly for fans of Michigan State basketball, who were understandably jumping for joy over Bates choosing to play for their school/team. pic.twitter.com/WdrG7R5tpc — SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) June 29, 2020Why Emoni Bates is a big dealMany pundits have called Bates the best basketball prodigy to come out of high school since LeBron James.
Emoni Bates fever, great matchups highlight final week of prep boys hoops season
Believe it or not, the final week of the boys high school basketball season is upon us, with quarterfinal games set to take place Tuesday throughout the state in all four divisions. The semifinals will be Thursday and Friday at Michigan State University’s Breslin Center, with the championship games set for Saturday. Emoni Bates feverIt is fast gripping the high school sports world in the state. The next stop for Bates and Lincoln is a Division 1 state quarterfinal on Tuesday against Detroit Martin Luther King at Detroit Mercy’s Calihan Hall. Last year’s Class B champion, Benton Harbor, was beaten in a regional final by Hudsonville Unity Christian.