Keesha Tate Finds Success in the Shadow of Greatness

Interacting for the first time at one of Catchings’ basketball camps in 2001, the two created a fast friendship which continues to this day.

“I remember when I first got to Indianapolis,” Catchings said. “My dream was to host my own basketball camp. Everyone kept talking about Brykeesha Tate and how she had the potential to really do something with her life and make a name for herself in basketball. She came to my camp, and right away I knew she was special. She always wanted to be in a gym. We hit it off right away, and she has become my little sis since then.”

Picking up a basketball for the first time when she was eight, Tate got her start in Indianapolis area recreational and local leagues. It wasn’t until high school at Arsenal Tech, however, that basketball became a true calling for her.

“The high school experience, as far as basketball, was anything short of a fairytale,” Tate said. “I really had to grow up while playing there.”

During Catchings’ Rookie of the Year season in 2002 though, Tate was on the sidelines as a Fever ballkid – rebounding for players during warmup; wiping the floor; assisting players with towels and water; and assisting Fever staff with assorted game night chores. She began the job at 14 and continued well into her college years.

“I have always been a fan of the Fever,” Tate said. “When I got the opportunity to work with them, it was great. When I was in college, I started thinking that maybe I was too old for it, but I just couldn’t stay away. With me being as close to Catch as I am, it made it easier. If I am going to be there and be around the athletes, I might as well get the best seat I can!”

After high school, Tate was given the opportunity to play at several different colleges including inquiries from Southern Indiana, Northwestern and Fresno State. Her choice to stay in Indianapolis and attend IUPUI meant that she could still play but also be close to her family.

“It was a great opportunity for me to be able to stay in the city especially being raised by my grandparents,” Tate said. “When I was granted the opportunity to play at IUPUI on a full scholarship, I jumped at the chance. Not too many people get the chance to stay in their backyard when they have to make that transition from high school to college.”

For Tate, the transition resulted in success at the college level. She became the Jaguars’ starting point guard and broke the school record for assists.

She maintained her relationship with Catchings and, last spring, Tate was able to work side-by-side with Catchings during her S.T.A.R.S mentoring program. The six-week experience gave area girls (13-16 years old) coaching on basketball and life skills.

Currently, Tate is taking after her mentor by playing in England as a member of the Leeds Metropolitan University basketball team. Attending graduate school in Northern England, approximately 170 miles north of London, she is pursuing her master’s degree in sports management. Though the degree program should only last a year, she is already committed to another season with the team.

“Growing up as a basketball player, you always dream about making it to the next level,” Tate said. “My choice to come back here again next season was mainly a basketball decision. I just want to get stronger and better. My ultimate goal is to travel further into Europe and play somewhere else professionally.”

Up next for Tate is the English Basketball League All-Star Game. The contest features 10 English stars against 10 stars from the rest of the world, including Tate, the former Fever ballkid. Averaging 13 points per game and seven assists, Tate and her team are tied for second place in the EBL standings with a 10-2 record.

The former Fever ballkid is following some very large footsteps, but from Arsenal Tech to IUPUI and now Leeds Metropolitan University in England – she keeps on following.