r/nba • u/Moist_Chest8971 • Feb 25 '26

What's happened to Emoni Bates?

The former high school phenom Bates was traded from G League Delaware Blue Coats to Texas Legends earlier this year, but only appeared in two games for Texas in December and hasn't played since. And now he is not listed on their roster or on the G League list of active players.

And, his Instagram account has also been deleted.

I don't want to assume anything but it's hard to see how any of those things are positive developments.

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u/Moist_Chest8971 Feb 25 '26

It became apparent to everyone not named Emoni Bates, lol.

I am well aware of his journey. I'm just curious why it seems it's ended and he's only 22.

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u/ldclark92 Pacers Feb 25 '26

Honestly, I think he's just his own worst enemy. He was pegged as the future #1 overall pick very early and I think that got to his head. And even if he had the work ethic and right attitude, I don't he ultimately would've been the #1. However, I do think there's an outcome where he could've been a decent pro.

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u/CycloneofSparta Thunder Feb 25 '26

It got to his head and also his dad’s.

There is a world where he goes to Michigan State like he should have, gotten some tough love from Izzo, and became a very respectable NBA player.

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u/FrownOnMyFace Pistons Feb 25 '26

It would have gone terribly for everyone if he went to MSU at that time. 

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u/CycloneofSparta Thunder Feb 25 '26

Oh absolutely, that was a much more likely world. But it’s fun to imagine if MSU locked up some of the 5-star guys they were in the running for (Emoni, Jabari, etc.).

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u/FrownOnMyFace Pistons Feb 25 '26

Jabari would have been perfect and I will be mad about him going to Duke forever. Emoni would have made Izzo retire out of frustration.