Under the league’s new CBA, teams are allowed to sign up to three players to two-way contracts. The Cleveland Cavaliers were the first team to fill all three spots on the list. Today, the 49th overall pick in the 2023 NAB draft, Emoni Bates, is signed to a two-way contract. He will be looking to earn playing time with Cleveland next season as a starter.
Coming out of high school, Bates was a five-star recruit who was destined to be an NBA star. However, he had a rough freshman season in Memphis and got involved in off-court activities. Bates was arrested on a gun charge in September 2022.
The 19-year-old then played one season at Eastern Michigan before declaring for the 2023 NBA draft. His felony charges were dropped to a misdemeanor and he had 18 months of probation to serve. It’s an interesting prospect heading into the NBA. The talent is totally there, but Bates needs to stay out of trouble.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have officially signed forward Emoni Bates to a two-way contract.
– Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) July 7, 2023
Emoni Bates is looking to earn playing time next season with the Cleveland Cavaliers
In the 2022-23 season with Eastern Michigan, Emoni Bates proved that his level of talent has not changed. He averaged (19.2) points, (5.8) rebounds and (1.4) assists per game. The former 2020 Gatorade High School Player of the Year still has a lot of unrealized potential.
He’s had some roadblocks in his college career but he’ll be looking to stay on track to become the player he can be. His G League journey will likely begin with the Cleveland Charge. It should be fun for Bates, but he can earn a spot on the Cavs roster with hard work and dedication.
Last season, Bates was a third team All-AAC selection. On January 24 against Toledo, Bates scored 43 points. It was the ninth most by an NCAA player in 2022-23. At six-foot-nine, Bates would be an NBA All-Star. Fortunately, he fits the modern style of play of what teams are looking for in a big guy. Bates has the ability to both shoot and drive to the basket.
Being able to create your own offense in the NBA is crucial, especially for a player of his size. It is not limited to playing in the post. Bates has the ability to attack the dribble and take three steps back. His game is by no means complete, but he has the potential to be a key player off the bench next season.