NCAA Basketball Recruiting: Pros and cons of Emoni Bates final 4 options

This NCAA Basketball offseason has seemed as if it was going on forever. Between the neverending transfer portal saga, NBA Draft decisions, and just recently, five-star recruit Jalen Duren reclassifying to join Memphis for the upcoming season. However, there is still one major move left to be made this offseason, featuring maybe the biggest prospect to come out of High School since LeBron James.

That’s what some of the talk was about concerning Emoni Bates, who for the longest was the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2022 class and high major expectations. Was figured to be a lock for the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. However, a rocky Spring session on the AAU circuit started to create doubt and concerns as to whether Bates is truly that generational prospect many previously thought.

A much better set of performances this Summer brought the five-star forward back into the positive limelight. And now, Bates has officially reclassified to the 2021 class, making him eligible for the upcoming season. We also know the four final options currently in play; Memphis, Oregon, Michigan State (who he originally committed to), and the NBA G League, rumored to be a preferred path after parting ways with the Spartans.

At this point, everyone knows the raw talent Bates has. He’s a 6’9 combo forward that can score from 35 feet and under on the court. He’s an outstanding shooter with the size to shot over just about anyone, while also capable of taking opponents off the dribble, scoring inside, and hitting mid-range shots. This is a top-5 overall prospect in any class, including the 2021 group.

With visits this week to Oregon and Memphis, a decision is set to be made soon. But does any stand out in terms of being the best potential fit? Here’s a closer look at each option, including the pros and cons to consider.