Bates was a two-time First-team All-Big Ten performer (1996 and 1998) and still holds a majority of the NU season and career receiving records.

As an outfielder, Bates was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays organization in the 53rd round of the June 1994 Major League Baseball draft.

However, as National Signing Day drew closer Bates reconsidered a scholarship offered by Northwestern coach Gary Barnett.

In the third quarter, Bates caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Steve Schnur stretching the NU lead to 17–9.

[4] Bates continued to excel throughout his freshman campaign, helping lead Northwestern to the 1996 Rose Bowl, where he had seven receptions for 145 yards in a losing effort.

[5] Expectations for Bates were high entering his Junior season, as he was named to the prestigious preseason Playboy All-American team.

[6] Following his stint in Tampa, Bates returned to Evanston to train and wait for NFL free agent offers.

[2] Around the time of his retirement, Bates began to volunteer and coach at Evanston Township High School, and was inspired to become a full-time teacher.

While completing his master's work online with the University of Phoenix, Bates shadowed history and social science classes at ETHS.