Marist's Point Guard TJ Tate Leads with Poise and Playmaking

The 5-foot-10 senior tallies 6 points, 5 assists, and 3 steals in win over West Aurora

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Senior point guard TJ Tate has been Marist's starting floor general for three years, leading the team with his steady play and unselfish style. In a 57-41 win over West Aurora, Tate filled up the stat sheet with 6 points, 5 assists, and 3 steals, while also playing lockdown defense on the opposing team's best player. Marist coach Brian Hynes praised Tate's leadership, composure, and ability to make his teammates better.

Why it matters

Tate's performance highlights his value as the glue that holds Marist's talented roster together. As a pass-first point guard, he sets the tone for the team with his defense, decision-making, and willingness to get his teammates involved. His leadership will be crucial as Marist heads into the playoffs.

The details

Tate, who has been the starting point guard since the end of his freshman year, ran the offense with precision and played excellent defense, limiting West Aurora's leading scorer Travis Brown to just 12 points. Marist senior forwards Charles Barnes (18 points, 5 rebounds) and Stephen Brown (11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks) also made key contributions to the win.

  • Tate was elevated to the varsity at the end of his freshman year and played in a state postseason game against Bloom.
  • Marist has a 24-4 record so far this season.

The players

TJ Tate

A 5-foot-10 senior point guard who has been Marist's starting floor general for the past three seasons, known for his steady play, unselfish style, and lockdown defense.

Brian Hynes

The head coach of the Marist basketball team, who recognized Tate's talent and leadership potential early on, elevating him to the varsity at the end of his freshman year.

Charles Barnes

A senior forward for Marist who scored 18 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in the win over West Aurora.

Stephen Brown

A senior forward for Marist who contributed 11 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocked shots in the victory.

Travis Brown

A junior guard for West Aurora, who was limited to just 12 points due to Tate's defensive efforts.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He just does all the little things, getting steals and guarding the best player on the other team. He's a one-man press breaker. I'd say he's the most unselfish player on our team.”

— Kendall Meyers, Junior forward (Chicago Tribune)

“He's been our starting point guard for three years now. The whole team loves him. He's our glue — a very fun kid who makes us go. He's so steady. He's so quick. And he's just as fast with or without the ball.”

— Brian Hynes, Marist head coach (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

Marist will look to continue their strong season as they head into the playoffs, with Tate leading the way as their experienced and composed floor general.

The takeaway

TJ Tate's performance as Marist's point guard exemplifies the value of a true floor general who prioritizes making his teammates better over personal stats. His leadership, defense, and playmaking will be crucial as Marist aims for postseason success.