Former Sydney Kings star Jae'Sean Tate has been signed by the Houston Rockets on a three-year contract.
Tate won the Kings' MVP award last year and was named in the NBL All-First Team, averaging 16.8 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.
Tate will link up with his former Kings coach Will Weaver, after Weaver was signed by the Rockets as an assistant coach.
"Although it is bitter sweet to see him leave us, I couldn't be prouder to watch him achieve his dream of playing in the NBA," Kings CEO Chris Pongrass said.
"Houston got a good one. We all look forward to watching his NBA journey unfold."
Kings chairman and owner Paul Smith echoed Pongrass' comments.
"JT is just an inspiration. His journey to the NBA has been characterised by life challenges, as well as those who doubted the incredible player that he is," he said.
"I tried my hardest to convince him to stay, I even offered to adopt him as my only son, but evidently he had to decline. He will always be our guy, and today we're very proud."
A fan favourite in Sydney, Tate said he was thankful for all the support during his time with the Kings.
"Firstly, I would like to thank Paul, Paul, Chris, my coaches, teammates, and the Sydney Kings organisation for not only the opportunity to succeed, but for all the memories we created this past season," he said.
"I'm so thankful for the experience of being able to play in front of an incredible fan base, and grateful to have been a part of more than one broken record at Qudos Bank Arena."
"Sydney will always have a special place in my heart and I will forever be repping my Kings."
