The pick is in, and at pick No. 49 the Cleveland Cavaliers selected Eastern Michigan forward Emoni Bates in the 2023 NBA Draft.
Bates, a former top prospect, has had a perplexing path to the NBA. No scout can deny the scoring talent of Bates, but his decision-making and underwhelming athleticism caused his hype to minimize over time.
Standing at roughly 6-foot-9, he has a negative wingspan of 6-foot 7. This has been a hurdle in his defensive growth. His overall size and potential makes him a valuable selection so late into the draft.
After a tough year on the Memphis Tigers, Bates transferred to the Eastern Michigan Eagles and averaged 19.