Emoni Bates has been one the most highly touted recruits in the nation since he entered high school. With a rare mix of athleticism, length, and potent scoring ability, Bates has been compared to future Hall of Famer, Kevin Durant.

A few weeks ago, Bates reclassified to the Class of 2021 to be eligible to play in either the NBA G-League or his picks of his top colleges. After weeks of anticipation, Bates has chosen the traditional route and will attend University of Memphis under the tutelage of Penny Hardaway.

Bates, the #2 ranked player overall in the class of ’21 will join the #1 player in the class of ’21 Jalen Duren. Bates and Duren dominated the Nike EYBL circuit this summer on Team Final.

Even though Bates will play college basketball this season, he will not be eligible for the 2022 NBA Draft. Unlike nearly every other recruit, Bates will not be ‘One and Done’.