Pate Departs Providence, Eyes NBA G-League Return

Dink Pate has officially left the Providence men's basketball team, opting to pursue opportunities in the NBA G-League. This decision comes after a period of uncertainty surrounding his NCAA eligibility and new institutional guidance. Coach Bryan Hodgson confirmed Pate's departure, stating the team fully supports his choice to explore professional basketball, where he previously played for three years.

Pate's situation was complicated by academic and professional eligibility questions from the NCAA, which had not yet cleared him for competition. As a result, he was not compensated by Providence, as per college policy requiring full certification before any payments are made. Pate was facing a Monday deadline to sign an Exhibit 10 deal, a contract he previously held.

The team has moved forward, demonstrating their capability in an exhibition game against Pittsburgh, winning 87-64. Coach Hodgson emphasized that the roster was not built around one player and that the team will remain strong. Providence also played without guards Devin Vanterpool and Ryan Sabol due to injuries, and fifth-year players Derek Simpson and Joseph Pinion, who are involved in a federal antitrust lawsuit.