In this article, we will delve into the recent developments surrounding Steven Adams and the knee surgery he underwent before the 2023-24 basketball season, which affected his ability to play for the Memphis Grizzlies alongside Ja Morant. We will explore his background, career, and the circumstances that led to his trade to the Houston Rockets. Let’s unravel the story of Steven Adams.
Introduction
In the world of professional basketball, injuries can dramatically impact a player’s career and a team’s performance. One such case is that of Steven Adams, a remarkable athlete who underwent knee surgery just before the 2023-24 NBA season. This surgery had significant consequences for both Adams and the Memphis Grizzlies, where he was expected to make a significant impact alongside Ja Morant. In this article, we will explore the journey of Steven Adams, from his early life to his recent injury and trade to the Houston Rockets.
Who is Steven Adams?
Steven Funaki Adams, born on July 20, 1993, in Rotorua, New Zealand, is a towering figure in the world of professional basketball. Standing at an imposing 6 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 265 pounds, Adams has had a remarkable journey in the sport. He made his debut playing for the Wellington Saints in 2011 before embarking on a journey to the United States to play college basketball for the Pittsburgh Panthers in 2012.
In 2013, Adams entered the NBA scene when the Oklahoma City Thunder selected him as the 12th overall pick in the draft. Over the years, he showcased his impressive rebounding and defensive skills while playing for various teams, including the Thunder, New Orleans Pelicans, Memphis Grizzlies, and currently the Houston Rockets. His contributions to the sport were acknowledged with accolades, including being part of the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2014.
| Full Name | Steven Funaki Adams |
| Date of Birth | July 20, 1993 |
| Age | 30 |
| Height | 6 ft 11 in (2.11 m) |
| Weight | 265 lb (120 kg) |
| Position | Center |
| Nationality | New Zealander |
| NBA Debut | 2013 |
| NBA Draft | 2013: 1st round, 12th overall pick |
| Current Team | Houston Rockets |
Steven Adams Early Life
Steven Adams’ early life was marked by challenges and tragedy. Born to a Tongan mother and an English father, Sid Adams, on July 20, 1993, he grew up in a family with a rich basketball background. His father, who also stood at 6 feet 11 inches tall, fathered 18 children with five women, and many of Steven’s siblings excelled in athletics.
Tragedy struck when Steven’s father passed away from stomach cancer when he was just 13 years old. This event had a profound impact on his life, forcing him to navigate challenges without parental guidance. However, his life took a turn for the better when Blossom Cameron rescued him from the streets of Rotorua after his father’s death. With legal guardianship granted to Cameron, he found stability and a new opportunity in Wellington.
Under the guidance of basketball legend Kenny McFadden, Adams enrolled in Scots College, where he honed his basketball skills and set the foundation for his remarkable career.
Steven Adams Career
Steven Adams’ career in the NBA is nothing short of impressive. Starting with the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2013 as the 12th overall pick, he quickly established himself as the team’s primary starting center, known for his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities. His consistent performance led to a significant four-year, $100 million contract extension with the Thunder in 2016.
After his tenure with the Thunder, Adams played for the New Orleans Pelicans in the 2020-2021 season before joining the Memphis Grizzlies in 2021. Unfortunately, his time with the Grizzlies was marred by a right knee injury that eventually required surgery.
In the 2023-24 season, Adams was traded to the Houston Rockets, marking a new chapter in his career. Despite facing challenges with injuries, Steven Adams remains a respected figure in the NBA, known for his contributions both on and off the court.
Steven Adams Age
As of now, Steven Adams is 30 years old, born on July 20, 1993. His basketball journey began with the Wellington Saints in 2011, followed by his move to the United States in 2012 to pursue college basketball at Pittsburgh. Despite facing challenges such as injuries, Adams continues to be a respected figure in the basketball world.
He is not only recognized for his on-court prowess but also for his off-court personality, marked by a sense of humor, humility, and genuine character. As he continues his basketball journey with the Houston Rockets, Adams remains a valuable asset to the teams he represents, leaving a lasting impact on the NBA.
Steven Adams Stats
| Season | Team | GP | GS | MPG | FG% | RPG | APG | BPG | PPG |
| 2013–14 | Oklahoma City | 81 | 20 | 14.8 | .503 | 4.1 | 0.5 | 0.7 | 3.3 |
| 2014–15 | Oklahoma City | 70 | 67 | 25.3 | .544 | 7.5 | 0.9 | 1.2 | 7.7 |
| 2015–16 | Oklahoma City | 80 | 80 | 25.2 | .613 | 6.7 | 0.8 | 1.1 | 8.0 |
| 2016–17 | Oklahoma City | 80 | 80 | 29.9 | .571 | 7.7 | 1.1 | 1.0 | 11.3 |
| 2017–18 | Oklahoma City | 76 | 76 | 32.7 | .629 | 9.0 | 1.2 | 1.0 | 13.9 |
| 2018–19 | Oklahoma City | 80 | 80 | 33.4 | .595 | 9.5 | 1.6 | 1.0 | 13.9 |
| 2019–20 | Oklahoma City | 63 | 63 | 26.7 | .592 | 9.3 | 2.3 | 1.1 | 10.9 |
| 2020–21 | New Orleans | 58 | 58 | 27.7 | .614 | 8.9 | 1.9 | 0.7 | 7.6 |
| 2021–22 | Memphis | 76 | 75 | 26.3 | .547 | 10.0 | 3.4 | 0.8 | 6.9 |
| 2022–23 | Memphis | 42 | 42 | 27.0 | .597 | 11.5 | 2.3 | 1.1 | 8.6 |
What Happened to Steven Adams?
Steven Adams’ recent situation involves a trade from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Houston Rockets. This trade took place just a few days ago, with the Grizzlies exchanging Adams for Victor Oladipo, two second-round picks, and a third-round pick.
Adams’ departure from Memphis marked the end of a three-season partnership with Ja Morant. The decision to trade Adams may have been influenced by his knee injury, which he suffered in the previous season, leading to knee surgery just before the 2023-24 campaign.
Unfortunately, this injury prevented him from playing alongside Morant, significantly impacting the Grizzlies’ ability to field their projected starting lineup. Despite Adams’ efforts to hold the team together during challenging times, the Grizzlies made the decision to trade him to the Houston Rockets, reshaping the dynamics of both teams for the current season.
Steven Adams Injury Update – FAQs
- What happened to Steven Adams’ knee?
Steven Adams underwent knee surgery before the 2023-24 season due to a previous injury, affecting his ability to play with the Memphis Grizzlies. - Why couldn’t Steven Adams play for the Grizzlies?
Adams couldn’t participate due to knee surgery, and his absence, combined with Ja Morant’s suspension and injury, impacted the Grizzlies’ season. - What challenges did the Grizzlies face with Adams sidelined?
The Grizzlies faced difficulties with key players like Adams and Morant being sidelined, affecting their on-court performance during the season. - What is the severity of Steven Adams’ injury?
Specific details and severity of Adams’ injury might not be disclosed, but his absence significantly affected the Grizzlies’ season. - How tall is Steven Adams?
Steven Adams stands at 6 feet 11 inches (2.11 meters) tall.
Conclusion
The journey of Steven Adams in the NBA has been marked by resilience, talent, and a dedication to the sport he loves. Despite facing setbacks such as injuries and trade decisions, Adams continues to make an impact on the basketball court. His recent trade to the Houston Rockets opens a new chapter in his career, and fans eagerly await his return to the game. We wish Steven Adams a swift recovery and success in his future endeavors on the court. Visit – NewsPSP | NewsDekha