Bates IV began his time with the Rams in top fashion, shooting 60% on the floor, 15-of-25, while being 7-of-14 from beyond the arc (50%) to average 21.5 ppg with 43 points, 4 assists, and 2 steals in the Rams 2-0 week hosting the East Region Challenge. He began by going 6-of-13 on the floor, 2-6 from beyond the arc, and a perfect 6-6 from the free throw line to score 20 points with 2 steals and an assist in Jefferson's 77-66 victory against American International. Bates IV followed it up with a 23 point performance, going 9-of-12 on the floor and 5-8 from three with 3 rebounds and 3 assists in the Rams' 89-58 win against Mercy. This helped him be on the CACC Honor Roll.
