Looking at Emoni Bates' stats to understand his breakout season and NBA draft projection

Eastern Michigan Eagles star Emoni Bates caught fire when they went up against the Toledo Rockets. Highlights of Bates' last game went viral on social media after he scored 29 straight points in the first half of their game. Before the half ended, the rest of the Eagles only managed to score six points as Emoni dominated the proceedings.

Unfortunately, the Eagles still lost to the Rockets 84-79. Nevertheless, it was a magnificent performance by Bates, one that is bound to attract attention from the basketball world.

After putting up a historic night, Bates managed to catch the attention of an NBA player who's currently having a historic season himself. LeBron James took notice of Emoni on Twitter and gave the young buck his flowers for his amazing performance.

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Looking at Emoni Bates' NBA Draft projection

Emoni Bates

After witnessing Emoni Bates' most recent accomplishments, basketball scouts will surely have to raise his NBA draft projection. Of course, it's understandable if his ranking remains the same. Bates will have to consistently put up monster numbers if he wants to be considered one of the top picks in the 2023 NBA Draft. But how exactly is his ranking holding up today?

Bates' draft projection, as reported by Sports Illustrated, indicates that he may be selected either first or late in the second round. The reason behind his disappointing selection predictions is due to his troubles as a freshman in college. Bates struggled in his first season of collegiate basketball as a 17-year-old freshman, posting only 9.7 points on 38.6% shooting and 2.3 turnovers per game.

Now playing for the Eastern Michigan Eagles in his second college season, it seems like Emoni Bates' draft projections will rise higher than expected. He's improved as a sophomore and is finally putting up superstar figures. Bates is currently averaging 20.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. A huge turnaround compared to his freshman year.

If Emoni decides to push through with his plans on entering the 2023 NBA Draft, he could possibly be drafted mid-to-late first round. It wouldn't be surprising, though, if he suddenly gets selected early in the draft. Either way, Bates is no longer a second-round draft pick prospect. He's proven the critics wrong this season and looks ready to compete in the big leagues.