Jabari Bates

Jabari Bates, a rising talent from Compton, California, has made a notable impact in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Football (NCAAF) landscape as a running back (RB) for the San Jose State Spartans. Standing at 5'6" and weighing 166 pounds, Bates showcases a unique blend of agility and power, essential for his position. As a sophomore, he has already started to carve out a significant role on his team, demonstrating his potential and versatility on the field. During the 2024 regular season, Bates's performance was marked by noteworthy statistics that underline his burgeoning career. He rushed for a total of 254 yards on 59 attempts, achieving an average of 4.305 yards per carry, a testament to his effectiveness in penetrating defenses. His ability to find the end zone was highlighted by scoring one rushing touchdown, alongside his capability to contribute to the passing game, evidenced by his reception of two passes for 17 yards, one of which was for a touchdown. Bates's longest run of the season was an impressive 31 yards, and he achieved the longest reception at 16 yards, showcasing his big-play ability. Not just limited to offense, Bates also made his mark on special teams, amassing 347 yards on 16 kick returns, with an average of 21.688 yards per return. This contribution underscores his versatility and the multidimensional threat he poses to opponents. Despite facing challenges, such as losing one fumble, his overall contribution to the Spartans has been significant, highlighted by his participation in 13 games and earning a start in one of them. Bates's early life in Compton, combined with his collegiate achievements, paints the picture of an athlete with a promising future. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game, from rushing and receiving to special teams, positions him as a player to watch in the coming seasons. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, Jabari Bates is poised to leave a lasting mark on the San Jose State Spartans and potentially beyond.