Former top recruit Bates transferring from Memphis to Eastern Michigan
Emoni Bates is transferring to Eastern Michigan after playing his freshman year with Memphis.
The former top high school recruit announced the decision on his Instagram Wednesday.
Bates announced in April that he was leaving the Tigers after just one season, during which he averaged 9.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. However, he played in just 18 games - making 13 starts - because of a back injury ruling him out from late January to mid-March.
The 18-year-old was initially the No. 1 recruit in the 2022 class before reclassifying to 2021. The five-star forward was ranked third overall among 2021 prospects by ESPN, behind Chet Holmgren and Jaden Hardy.
A native of Ypsilanti, Michigan, his transfer marks a return to his home state. Bates initially committed to Michigan State and Tom Izzo in June 2020, but decommitted nearly a year later to consider other collegiate and professional options. He committed to Memphis and coach Penny Hardaway in August 2021.
Bates will be eligible for the NBA draft in June 2023.