[1] He initially studied at New Mexico State University (NMSU),[1] where he played for the Aggies and received first team all-Border Conference honors as a sophomore in 1957–58.

[1] He consequently sat out the 1958–59 season per NCAA transfer rules, before averaging 5.3 points and 4.0 rebounds per game with the Memphis Tigers during his junior year.

[2] He made his NBA debut on October 27, 1961,[2] recording one rebound and attempting one field goal against the Detroit Pistons.

[8] While Yates found a productive role with the team, averaging 10.7 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, the league folded before the season ended.

[9] Yates returned to his alma mater, Memphis State, as an assistant to head coach Moe Iba in 1969.

However, a subpar 1978–79 season, allegations of NCAA violations,[11] and the academic suspension of Tigers star Tony Rufus[12] all led to Yates announcing his resignation on February 8, 1979.