Breaking News: 5- Star guard, Tamar Bates decommits from Missouri Tigers, Flip to Indiana Hoosier after rejecting Tennessee and Virginia Tech……

Breaking News: 5-Star Guard Tamar Bates Decommits from Missouri Tigers, Flips to Indiana Hoosiers After Rejecting Tennessee and Virginia Tech

In a major shake-up on the college basketball recruiting trail, 5-star shooting guard Tamar Bates has announced his decision to decommit from the Missouri Tigers and instead commit to the Indiana Hoosiers, sending shockwaves through the NCAA basketball community. The decision comes after intense speculation about his future and strong pushes from top programs, including Tennessee and Virginia Tech, both of which he ultimately turned down.

Bates, a 6-foot-5 elite backcourt prospect out of IMG Academy, had been considered a cornerstone recruit for Missouri’s upcoming class. Known for his explosive scoring ability, court vision, and defensive tenacity, he was expected to make an immediate impact in the SEC. However, in a surprise move confirmed via his social media early Wednesday morning, Bates thanked Missouri’s coaching staff for their support before announcing he would be taking his talents to Bloomington, Indiana.

“I want to thank the Missouri coaching staff and fans for believing in me,” Bates wrote. “This was a tough decision, but after prayer, conversations with my family, and thinking about my future, I’ve decided to commit to Indiana University. Let’s get to work, Hoosier Nation.”

Sources close to the situation say Indiana head coach Mike Woodson played a pivotal role in the recruitment. Woodson’s NBA background and emphasis on player development reportedly appealed to Bates and his inner circle. “Coach Woodson laid out a vision that aligned with my goals,” Bates later told local media. “He believes in my game, and I believe in what he’s building at IU.”

The Hoosiers, who have been actively revamping their roster and style under Woodson, now add a dynamic guard who can create his own shot and disrupt opposing offenses. Bates joins a backcourt that has been searching for a consistent scorer and leader, and his arrival could be a game-changer for Indiana’s 2025 campaign.

The decommitment is a significant blow to Missouri, who had hoped to turn their recent recruiting momentum into on-court success. Bates’ departure leaves a gap in the Tigers’ backcourt plans, and head coach Dennis Gates will now have to pivot quickly to fill the void before the next signing period.

Meanwhile, both Tennessee and Virginia Tech had been considered dark horse contenders in the Bates sweepstakes. Tennessee offered the appeal of playing in a high-profile SEC program, while Virginia Tech emphasized a system that would give Bates early freedom to shine. Ultimately, neither could compete with the blend of tradition, opportunity, and coaching experience that Indiana provided.

With Bates now officially a Hoosier, Indiana fans can look forward to seeing one of the nation’s most electrifying young talents don the cream and crimson. As the college basketball landscape continues to shift with high-profile commitments and decommitments, Tamar Bates’ flip may stand out as one of the most significant storylines of the offseason.