When you watch the bulk of a team’s games in a given season, it’s understandable to get emotionally attached to your preferred players. Realistically, you should consult a therapist if you don’t.
Jae’Sean Tate makes for a captivating protagonist. He’s got the origin story. Before last season, he was suiting up for the Sydney Kings of the NBL. At 25, the undrafted rookie signed with the Rockets and instantly started winning hearts.
He’s got the underdog appeal. At 6’4, Tate is undersized at power forward, but still plays the position at a fringe starter level. Houston Rockets fans have watched him tussle with Christian Wood’s assignment on a nightly basis in 2021-22.