Jae’Sean Tate’s Unexpected G-League Assignment
Jae’Sean Tate has long been a rare constant for the Houston Rockets amidst a whirlwind of organizational change. Since joining the team, he has witnessed several transformations, making his time with the franchise stand out. Remarkably, Tate is one of the few players still around who played alongside James Harden during his heyday in Houston, as well as with Clint Capela. That longevity speaks volumes about his journey and resilience.
Rockets’ Steady Performer
Tate burst onto the scene by making the All-Rookie First Team during the 2020-21 season, where he averaged 11.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. His performance proved to be a significant find for General Manager Rafael Stone, who recognized Tate’s potential when he signed the undrafted free agent. Before his arrival in Houston, Tate was honing his skills overseas, making his breakthrough all the more notable.
His second season saw an even slight uptick in performance, with averages of 11.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. However, the 2022-23 season brought challenges, as injuries hindered his contributions. The arrival of Ime Udoka as head coach in 2023 further complicated his standing on the roster, as the team developed considerable wing depth with players like Tari Eason, Amen Thompson, and Dillon Brooks—each of whom has outperformed Tate in terms of role and impact.
Demotion to the G-League
This season, Tate has seen a significant reduction in playing time, logging only 5.1 minutes per game. In a recent move that underscores his struggles, the Rockets assigned him to their G-League affiliate, the Rio Grande Vipers. This decision comes after Tate found himself on the bench for three out of the last six games, including not seeing any action during a loss against the Denver Nuggets.
Despite being undersized for a power forward at 6-foot-4, Tate has consistently played larger than his stature, often likened to a bowling ball that can hold his ground against bigger opponents. His ability to pass—evident in his near three assists per game average during his first two seasons—has added another dimension to his game that often goes overlooked.
In the offseason, the Rockets re-signed Tate to a one-year deal worth $2.67 million, the veteran minimum. This latest chapter of his career in the G-League presents an opportunity for Tate to regain his footing, compete regularly, and hopefully find a way back into a crowded rotation that continues to evolve.
