Jae'Sean Tate BUILT Scholarship

After 4 years of playing College Basketball at THE Ohio State University, I didn’t hear my name called on Draft Night. I wasn’t discouraged, I was determined. I knew I’d have to take the unconventional route to the NBA. My first two stops on my basketball journey were in Antwerp, Belgium and Sydney, Australia. I wouldn’t trade those experiences, or the people I met, for anything. If not for them, and their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. The support didn’t stop when I got to the NBA. The Houston community embraced me as one of their own. I was fortunate to be named NBA 1st Team All Rookie last year with the help of the local Coffee Community. Greenway Coffee backed my first official Coffee blend with a campaign that saw my coffee go out to all the NBA award ballot holders. I always tell people, “I’ve been BUILT, I just took the steps”, and each one of those steps came with support. That’s why I’m so excited to support the minority members of the Coffee and Food Service Industry who are taking the steps to achieve their goals and dreams, no matter how unconventional the route.  

This scholarship, hosted through Bold.org, isn’t just for high school graduates entering college. It is for incoming freshman and current students and grads paying off student loans. I’m hosting this scholarship specifically for minority and BIPOC service workers in the coffee and food industry who have balanced education with the demands of a day job. These folks are facing more uncertainty than ever in the wake of COVID-19, and they’ve been disproportionately affected by the pandemic.

Education is deeply important to me. I was a four-year student-athlete at Ohio State University, and graduating with a college degree is one of my proudest accomplishments to date. I’m inviting people from all parts of the country to apply for this scholarship. To enter, just record a one-minute video telling your story and explaining why you’d be a good candidate.

To kick off the scholarship campaign, I’m to give away a Halloween-themed custom pair of game-worn shoes. The top contributor between now (November 1st) and November 7th will win the shoes. I’ll announce the winner on November 8th through IG live. And beyond that, I’ll send signed memorabilia to the top scholarship contributor for every calendar month. 

I’m here to support everyone on the grind, no matter what your path looks like, and I look forward to hearing and being a small part of your journey.