STEVEN ADAMS
Early Life And Background
Born on 20 July 1993 in Rotorua, New Zealand into a large athletic family—he’s one of 18 siblings, many of whom played basketball at high levels. His half-sister Dame Valerie Adams is an Olympic shot-put champion.
After playing collegiately at the University of Pittsburgh for one season (averaging around 7.2 ppg, 6.3 rpg and 2.0 bpg), he was selected to the Big East All‑Rookie team.
NBA Career Overview
- Oklahoma City Thunder (2013–2020): Drafted 12th overall in 2013, Adams quickly established himself as a dominant defensive and rebounding presence. Across seven seasons, he averaged roughly 9.2 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 1.5 apg, and nearly a block per game in 706 games (641 starts).
- New Orleans Pelicans (2020–2021): Played one season in New Orleans with solid contributions, averaging close to 8.9 rebounds and around 7.6 ppg.
- Memphis Grizzlies (2021–2024): Signed in 2021, delivered elite offensive rebounding—leading the NBA in two consecutive seasons (4.6 and 5.1 o‑rebounds per game). In 2022–23, averaged 8.6 ppg, 11.5 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.1 bpg in 27 minutes of action.
Trade to Houston And Injury Comeback
- On 1 February 2024, Adams was traded to the Houston Rockets, along with the team’s medical concerns following knee surgery. Houston acquired him in exchange for Victor Oladipo and three future second-round picks.
- Adams missed virtually the entire 2023–24 season rehabbing from a torn PCL.
Houston Rockets (2024–Present)
2024–25 Season Return
- Returned to action late October 2024. Debuted on 29 October 2024, scoring 6 points and grabbing 3 rebounds in under 14 minutes against San Antonio.
- Worked his way back into the rotation, finishing the season with 58 regular-season games, averaging just 13.7 mpg, 3.9 points, and 5.6 rebounds per game.
Playoff Impact And Double-Big Lineups
- Became an integral part of the Rockets’ first-round playoff series against the Golden State Warriors, averaging 22.1 minutes, 5.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game across seven games.
- When paired with young star Alperen Şengün in a dual-center lineup, Houston outscored opponents by a staggering 14.1 points per 100 possessions—a standout net rating that drew praise even from Warriors coach Steve Kerr.
Re‐Signing And Role Going Forward
- In June 2025, Adams agreed to a fully guaranteed three-year, $39 million contract extension to remain with the Rockets through 2028—marking Houston’s first major offseason move.
- Despite limited minutes, his offensive rebounding and veteran leadership significantly boosted Houston’s performance in key situations. He ranked among team highs in playoff net rating and offensive rebounds per 36 minutes exceeding any previous figures in his career.
- The Rockets trusted him as the modern “old-school” backup center—a powerful screen setter, elite rebounder, quality passer, and tough interior defender, complementing their young core including Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet (pending his contract negotiations).
Personal Traits And Legacy
- Adams is widely recognized for his physical toughness, high basketball IQ, and no-nonsense style on the court. Off the court, he’s respected for humility, work ethic, and respect for the game’s traditions.
- Over time he’s developed a signature look—long hair, arm tattoos and a thick beard—that marks his transformation from the clean-cut rookie in 2013.
Quick Houston Rockets Summary (2024–25)
| Metric | Regular Season | Playoffs (vs GS) |
|---|---|---|
| Games Played | 58 (13.7 mpg) | 7 (22.1 mpg) |
| PPG | ~3.9 | ~5.7 |
| RPG | ~5.6 | ~6.6 |
| Blocks | ~0.5 | ~1.1 |
| Net Rating | Team-highs when on court | +14.1 per 100 possessions |
Steven Adams arrived in Houston as a veteran reclamation project following serious injury—and delivered far beyond expectations. As a key role player and team leader, he revitalized the Rockets’ frontcourt identity. Given his re‑signing and strong resume, he’s expected to be a reliable situational force as the Rockets continue their rebuild with young cores and playoff aspirations
Rockets Realm 