Bates and Rodgers: Best ‘Top 2’ Since….?
The class of 2022 is unique. The top 2 players, Emoni Bates (G/F, Ypsilanti – Lincoln) and Ty Rodgers (Wing, Grand Blanc) are elite prospects on a national level. In fact, they have the potential to be the best ‘top 2′ prospects in Michigan this century. Bates and Rodgers may go down as the next Chris Webber and Jalen Rose.
Lets take a look at some of the top prospect combos this century coming out of high school in Michigan, and compare.
2003
Brandon Cotton (SG, Detroit DePorres, Michigan State / University of Detroit)
The dynamic scorer was a McDonald’s All-American and a top 20 player nationally.
Dion Harris (G, Redford, Michigan)
The smooth scorer was a staple at the University of Michigan. Harris was a top 20-30 prospect in the country.
2004
Malik Hairston (G/F, Detroit Renaissance, Oregon)
Hairston was ranked in the top 10-15. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns and now plays overseas.
Joe Crawford (G/F, Detroit Renaissance, Kentucky)
Crawford was a McDonalds All-American and ranked in the top 10-15. He was drafted in the second round by the Los Angeles Lakers.
2006
Ramar Smith (SG, Martin Luther King, Tennessee)
Smith was a top 20-25 prospect in the country.
Deshawn Sims (F, Detroit Pershing)
Sims was a top 30-35 prospect. He went on to star for Michigan and be a critical player in UofM’s resurgence.
2007
Manny Harris (SG, Redford, Michigan)
The shooter was a top 30-35 ranked high school player. Harris had stints with the Cavaliers, Lakers, and Mavericks.
Kalin Lucas (PG, Orchard Lake St. Mary’s, Michigan State)
Lucas was ranked 30-35 in the country and starred for Michigan State. Lucas has enjoyed a long professional career overseas.
2013
James Young (SF, Rochester, Kentucky)
Young was considered a top 10-15 player. He was the 17th overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft.
Derrick Walton Jr. (PG, Chandler Park Academy, Michigan)
Walton Jr. has played for the Chicago Bulls and Miami Heat. He was ranked in the top 40 coming out of high school.
2015
Deyonta Davis (PF, Muskegon, Michigan State)
The athletic big man started his professional career with the Memphis Grizzlies. He was ranked in the top 20-30 coming out of high school.
Trevor Manuel (PF, Lansing Everett, Oregon, LMU, Olivet)
Manuel has been on a journey that took him to three high schools and three colleges. He was a top 40-50 prospect.
2018
Brandon Johns (PF, East Lansing, Michigan)
Johns was a top 60 prospect. He is starting his freshman season at the University of Michigan.
Marcus Bingham (PF, Grand Rapids Catholic Central, Michigan State)
Bingham was ranked in the top 60-70. He is currently beginning his freshmen campaign at Michigan State.
2022
Emoni Bates (G/F, Ypsilanti – Lincoln)
Bates might be the most anticipated prospect in Michigan in the last 25 years plus. He is an athletic 6’8” player with great length. Bates can handle the ball and score from all three levels. He makes his teammates better with his ability to attack the rim, draw defenders, and dish to the open man. Bates is generally considered the top freshman prospect in the country.
Ty Rodgers (G/F, Grand Blanc)
Rodgers is an impressive athlete. The 6’5” wing is known for his ability to attack the rim and finish through contact. He is quick and bouncy, helping him to be a constant threat for put back buckets. Rodgers is excellent on the defensive end where he uses his quick feet, wingspan, and ability to protect the rim to stifle opponents. He is considered a top 10 prospect in the nation.