ATHENS, W.Va. – Concord University head men's basketball coach
Todd May has announced the signing of JR Bates as the first player to the recruiting class of 2026.
Name: JR Bates
Hometown: Pickerington, Ohio
High School: Pickerington North
Position: Guard
Height: 5-10
During his junior season, Bates averaged 13.2 points, 4.0 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game while shooting 34 percent from three-point range. He was named Honorable Mention All-State for Division I in the state of Ohio as well as picking up a spot on
The Columbus Dispatch All-Metro Team. With Bates on the team, the Panthers went 20-4 during the 2024-2d5 season.
Bates was also selected to First Team All-Ohio Capital Conference Ohio Division. For perspective, current Mountain Lion guard Micah Yong was on the All-OCC Capital Division First Team for his alma mater, Westerville North.
"JR Bates is a high IQ, skilled guard that has spent his whole life in a gym as a coach's son," May said. "He knows how to score the ball, but can other involved as well. His IQ and instincts make him a tough hard-nosed defender. He fits our GRIT culture and we are excited to add him to the Mountain Lion family."
Through four games of his senior season, Bates is averaging 15.7 points, 8.3 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game.
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