Less than one minute into N.C. State’s opener against Bucknell on Tuesday, star forward Manny Bates dislocated his right shoulder, ending his junior campaign.
Bates had established himself as one of the country’s top shot blockers, averaging 2.8 per game over the last two seasons and leading the ACC both years.
Bates had previously sat out the 2018-2019 season in light of a seperate shoulder surgery before his freshman season.
I’m just heartbroken,” N.C. State head coach Kevin Keatts said. “I’m heartbroken for Manny because he’s overcome so much to become the incredible player he is. He does everything the right way. He doesn’t take shortcuts. He’s a prime example of everything I want an N.C. State basketball player to be on and off the court.”
Keatts continued, “I know Manny has the work ethic and positive mental attitude to come back from this. I know he’ll come back stronger and I know Manny’s best basketball is still ahead of him.”
Photo: gopack.com
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