The Philadelphia 76ers have signed Emoni Bates to an Exhibit 10 contract, giving the young forward an opportunity to compete for a roster spot or a potential two-way deal during training camp.

For those unfamiliar, an Exhibit 10 contract is a one-year deal worth the league minimum. It allows a player to participate in training camp, with the chance to earn a two-way contract or, if waived, join the team’s G League affiliate with a financial bonus.

Standing at 6-foot-8, Bates entered the league with high expectations after being drafted 49th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. A former standout at Eastern Michigan, Bates showed flashes of his scoring ability and potential as a versatile forward.

He spent much of his first two seasons with the Cleveland Charge, the Cavaliers’ G League affiliate, where he developed his game and became a G League All-Star in 2024. During his time with Cleveland, Bates appeared in 25 NBA games, averaging 3.1 points in 8.3 minutes per contest.

For Philadelphia, this is a low-risk, high-reward move. Bates is still just 20 years old and has the tools to become a productive wing at the NBA level. Training camp will provide him the platform to showcase his shooting, length, and scoring instincts as he fights for a spot in a crowded 76ers rotation.

If he doesn’t make the regular-season roster, Bates could continue to develop with the Delaware Blue Coats, the Sixers’ G League affiliate.

The 76ers signing Emoni Bates is a classic example of giving a young prospect another chance to prove himself. With his size, shooting ability, and G League success, Bates will be an intriguing player to watch throughout training camp and preseason.