The Cleveland Cavaliers had one selection in the 2023 NBA Draft. They took Emoni Bates in the second round and the 49th overall pick. That selection is proving to be a smart one for the wine and gold as the rookie has shined in the G League.
Because of his impressive season so far, Bates was selected to take part in the NBA's Rising Stars competition during All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis.
Bates and Team Detlif upset Team Pau and Victor Wembanyama in round one sending them to the championship. Emoni played nine minutes in the matchup and finished with five points while shooting 33% (2-for-6) from the floor. He also recorded two assists, one steal, and one block in game one.
That magic was short-lived though as Team Jalen took down Bates and Team Detlif. The Charge forward didn't have as big of an impact in the final game. Emoni only scored two points and was 0-2 from behind the arc.
Even Donovan Mitchell liked what he saw from Bates as the All-Star guard posted in support for him on X during the showcase.
Emoni wasn't originally selected to participate in the showcase. The news was only announced a few days ago that he would replace injured G League Ignite forward Ron Holland.
Still, seeing Bates share the floor with Wemby, Chet Holgrem, Bennedict Mathurin and others could be a glimpse of the future for Cavaliers fans and the NBA.
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