If a team does not offer the required tender by the specified date, the player becomes what type of free agent?

When a team fails to offer the required tender by the specified date, the player transitions into a state where they are classified outside the typical free agency categories recognized in the league agreements. Specifically, without a qualifying offer, they lose their restricted status and do not retain any rights by their previous team. Consequently, this situation results in the player becoming a rookie free agent if they have not accrued sufficient experience.

It's essential to understand the dynamics of free agency in the NBA: restricted free agency relies heavily on the team's qualifying offer, which allows them to match offers from other teams. If a team opts not to issue this offer, the player effectively loses this leverage and status, leading to the designation of rookie free agent. This classification facilitates their ability to sign with any team in the league without the previous team's intervention, effectively granting them the opportunity for a fresh start in their career.