NCAA Basketball: Update on free agent transfer Emoni Bates and his options
Memphis getting back into the picture
When Bates and head coach Penny Hardaway parted ways, it seemed like a foregone conclusion that there was no way they could come back together. There have been dozens of players that have entered the NCAA Basketball transfer portal this offseason, only to go back to their respective teams later on. But considering the somewhat bad feelings that were there, could the bridge have been too burned?
Throughout last week, there were reports and rumors that the Bates camp had been talking with Coach Hardaway. The specifics, I don’t know but considering the current circumstances, one would have to assume that a potential reunion was part of the conversation.
I’ll go ahead and officially join Leon in throwing out a prediction that Emoni Bates returns to Memphis.
— Will (@willh901) June 27, 2022
I talked about all this on my YouTube yesterday (link in bio), but to summarize the Bates camp has made it clear they want back.
Can’t see them going anywhere else right now https://t.co/V1jJXqyuWW
There are some pros for both sides to consider. For Bates, he’d go back to a coaching staff that is already familiar with his game and what needs to improve. The wing position is less crowded compared to last season and incoming point guard and AAC Player of the Year Kendric Davis can help put Bates into a position to succeed.
Had these rumors come up two weeks ago, I would think that the Tigers would be a favorite to get Bates back. But since then, the team landed 6’8 forward Emmanuel Akot, as well as 6’5 shooting guard Keonte Kennedy. They could still add Bates to the fold and find a spot for him in the rotation but unless he’d be willing to come off the bench, I still have my doubts that Memphis is the return spot.