Emoni Bates committed to Michigan State in the incoming class of 2022 and is projected to be the top overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft, but he may instead go straight to the G League.
"Of all the sources interviewed for this story, those existing in and out of the Bates camp, no one seems to believe Emoni will play at Michigan State," writes Brandon Quinn at The Athletic. "Instead, Bates most likely will wait for a professional contract, probably the most lucrative deal the G League can muster, and turn professional before heading to the NBA."
Tom Izzo was unaware of Bates' decision to commit to Michigan State until the day before his announcement. The Bates family, however, knew for months they'd commit to Michigan State.
“As of now, everything still stands as it was,” E.J. Bates says, wearing a knowing smile. “Kids are kids, and kids make decisions all the time. Michigan State is still the place that he loves. They embraced him. They showed him love and they continue to show him love. They’ve always been good to him, so I don’t see a switch up or anything. Now, if things change, or some rules change, you know — who knows? Because Michigan State, that’s one dream. The NBA is another dream. I don’t know. At the end of the day, it’s Emoni’s decision on what he wants to do.”