GameDay Network

Rising Star Dick Pate's Journey from High School to NBA Prospect

March 19, 2025
Dink Pate joined the G League Ignite at 17, becoming the youngest professional basketball player in the United States.

Dink Pate skipped college entirely. The Dallas native joined the G League Ignite at 17, setting a record as the youngest professional basketball player in the United States. His point guard skills and competitive drive made the early leap possible.

When the Ignite program closed, Pate continued his development in Mexico City. The unconventional path hasn't dimmed his NBA aspirations—if anything, the adversity has sharpened his focus.