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Ohio State basketball: Jae’Sean Tate’s case for NBA ROTY

By Ryan Stano

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: Jae'Sean Tate #8 of the Houston Rockets reacts to a play against the Los Angeles Clippers during the third quarter at Staples Center on April 09, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: Jae'Sean Tate #8 of the Houston Rockets reacts to a play against the Los Angeles Clippers during the third quarter at Staples Center on April 09, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) /
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The former Ohio State basketball player has played great in his rookie year as an NBA player and deserves consideration for the Rookie of the Year Award.

Jae’Sean Tate was one of the most beloved players that have come through the Ohio State basketball program recently. He played three years under Thad Matta before playing a final year under Chris Holtmann. He was beloved for his hard work and grit on the court.

Tate has done more of the same in his rookie season in the NBA. At the age of 25, he is finally getting his chance to show what he can do at the highest level of basketball. Prior to this season, he played in Australia and played well enough to get a look in the NBA.

Tate has played with the Houston Rockets this season and has done quite well for a team that is one of the worst teams in the league. He has played in 66 games this season and has started 54 of them as a small forward. He’s averaged 11.2 points to go along with 5.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.3 steals a game.

Because of his great play, Tate definitely deserves a look as the NBA Rookie of the Year. He has been able to play in almost every game this season, something that some of the other big-time candidates have struggled to do. He has also had to adapt his game very quickly.

Tate is shooting 50% from the field and is playing 29.4 minutes per game. He does exactly what the Rockets need him to do on a nightly basis. Anyone that watches Houston night in and night out can see the effort he puts in and how valuable he is as a switchable defender.

It’s unlikely that Tate will win ROTY, but he should definitely be on some ballots. I would be surprised if he doesn’t finish in the top three in voting. His strong play will certainly give the Buckeye basketball program a bit more recognition with recruits.

Next. Efton Reid finally commits to a school. dark

I hope Tate keeps his strong play up and can play on a better Houston team next season.

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