It feels like a lifetime ago, but Ypsilanti native Emoni Bates was at one time considered the best college basketball prospect and basketball prospect in general since Kevin Durant. He was once committed to play basketball at Michigan State. Then, in late April 2021, Bates shocked the world and announced he was reopening his recruitment to explore his options. On Thursday, Bates took to social media to reflect on that decision and address Spartans fans, Tom Izzo and former MSU assistant coach Mike Garland.
Bates played one season at Memphis and then transferred closer to home, to Eastern Michigan. He was selected in the second round of the 2023 NBA draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. He is on a two-way contract, splitting his time with the NBA team and its G League affiliate, the Cleveland Charge.
Bates’ post was interesting. He expresses some regret for his decision, saying he would redo things if he could. You can read it below:
To all my MSU people I love y’all and Coach Izzo! I was a 16 year old kid that made a decision held to the fire as an adult. If I could redo things I would. Life is about experiences, lessons and learning from them. I’ve tried to make amends plenty of times. If you can forgive a 16 year old who made a decision to reopen his recruitment I appreciate you. For those who cannot I understand. Coach Izzo and Coach Garland I will always love and respect you guys Thank you for once believing in me.
EB
To all my MSU people I love y’all and Coach Izzo! I was a 16 year old kid that made a decision held to the fire as an…
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This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Emoni Bates reflects on his decision to reopen his recruitment after committing to MSU
Reporting by Andrew Brewster, Spartans Wire / Spartans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
