Bates selected to Jordan Brand Classic roster

There will not be a Jordan Brand Classic all-star showcase this year. But if there were to be one, IU signee Tamar Bates would be playing in it.

This weekend, Bates was named to the roster for the annual prospect game, which has been on pause for the past two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Bates’ selection means Indiana will have two Jordan Brand Classic alums on its roster next season — Trayce Jackson-Davis participated in the 2019 event.

Bates has been in the news a couple of times this month. Three weeks ago, he jumped 34 spots in the 247 Sports rankings for 2021, ending the recruiting cycle as the No. 26 overall prospect in 247’s database. Rivals considers Bates to be the No. 30 overall player in the 2021 class.

A former Texas signee, Bates received a release from his commitment when former Longhorns coach Shaka Smart left for the Marquette job in March. He signed with IU in April.

Bates is one of seven Jordan Brand all-stars set to enter the Big Ten next season, joining Michigan forwards Moussa Diabate and Caleb Houstan and guard Kobe Bufkin, Michigan State guard Max Christie, Ohio State forward Malaki Branham and Nebraska guard Bryce McGowens.