Emoni Bates officially announced his transfer to Eastern Michigan on Tuesday.

Bates, who originally shared his plans two months ago, said he was looking forward to the homecoming.

"I love my city and coming home to do something special was big for me," Bates said. "I've known several of the guys on the team from playing together and competing. Having a strong relationship and bond with my teammates and coaching staff was important to me."

Bates averaged 9.7 points and 3.3 rebounds as a freshman at Memphis last season.

Eastern Michigan finished last year with a 10-21 record.