Mercurial college basketball star Emoni Bates has had a roller coaster of a career. From being the top recruit in the country to an up-and-down freshman season at Memphis in which he only played 18 games while fighting injury, Bates’ career has been a tale of stops and starts.
Bates transferred to Eastern Michigan in his hometown of Ypsilanti to continue his college career after his lone season with the Tigers.
However, things took yet another turn Sunday night as Bates was arrested in Superior Township, Michigan and charged with carrying a concealed weapon and “altering ID marks” on a firearm after police found a gun in his car during a traffic stop. Bates’ lawyer, Steve Haney, entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf at the arraignment on Monday. Both charges are classed as felonies.
The college basketball world reacted across social media about the newest chapter in the tale of Bates’ college career.
Eastern Michigan University released the following statement in regards to the situation:
“We are aware of a situation involving men’s basketball student-athlete Emoni Bates. Eastern Michigan University takes all allegations of this nature very seriously. Per department policy, he has been suspended automatically from practice and playing privileges until the legal process is resolved. Because this is an on-going legal matter, the University will have no further comment at this time.”
[ESPN]
About Mike Abelson
Mike Abelson is an editor for Comeback Media. He also works as a writer and broadcaster for numerous organizations throughout New England. You can follow his journey to see a basketball game at every New England college at throughthecurtain.blog.