Jae'Sean Tate lands NBA deal with Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets have today announced that they have officially signed former Brydens Lawyers Sydney Kings star Jae’Sean Tate to a three-year contract.

Tate averaged 16.8 points and 5.8 rebounds for the Kings last season as well as taking out the Club’s MVP honours and being named to the NBL All-First Team. 

It’s a historic day for the Kings organisation to have Tate joining the Rockets; it highlights the work the Club has undergone to provide a legitimate pathway for its athletes and personnel to develop and take their careers to the highest level.

“JT is one of those players that you want in the trenches with you – a great teammate and the ultimate competitor – tough, fiercely loyal and refuses to lose. Although it is bitter sweet to see him leave us, I couldn’t be prouder to watch him achieve his dream of playing in the NBA” said CEO Chris Pongrass.

“Beloved by Kings fans everywhere, Houston got a good one. We all look forward to watching his NBA journey unfold – JT, you will forever be a King.”

Kings Chairman and Owner Paul Smith echoed Pongrass’ comments: “JT is just an inspiration. His journey to the NBA has been characterised by life challenges, as well as those who doubted the incredible player that he is. The “too short, can’t match it” narrative greeted him in Australia but is one that he quickly proved wrong”. 

“I tried my hardest to convince him to stay, I even offered to adopt him as my only son, but evidently he had to decline. He will always be our guy, and today we’re very proud" Smith said. 

During his time with the Kings, Tate helped the Club to a Minor Premiership and their first Grand Final appearance since 2008. A fan favourite in Sydney, the ‘Tim-Tam Slammer’ as he was affectionately known will be sorely missed at Qudos Bank Arena this season.

“Firstly, I would like to thank Paul, Paul, Chris, my coaches, teammates, and the Sydney Kings organisation for not only the opportunity to succeed, but for all the memories we created this past season” Tate shared.

“I’m so thankful for the experience of being able to play in front of an incredible fan base, and grateful to have been a part of more than one broken record at Qudos Bank Arena.”

“Most importantly, thank you to the Sydney Kings Fan base for all of the love and support I have felt since day one. Sydney will always have a special place in my heart and I will forever be repping my Kings” Tate said.

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