A method of assembling a rolling element intermediate shaft assembly includes providing a solid shaft, a tubular shaft, and a wear plate. The solid shaft includes first and second ends. A tubular shaft includes an inner wall with an axially extending groove formed therein. The groove includes an inner surface. The wear plate includes a bottom surface that defines an axially extending channel. The wear plate is orientated in the groove of the tubular shaft with a gap defined by the wear plate and the groove of the tubular shaft. The solid shaft is then inserted into the tubular shaft. At least one ball bearing is inserted within the channel between the wear plate and the solid shaft.