Steven Adams is a professional basketball player who has made a name for himself in the NBA with his imposing presence, strong defense, and team-first mentality. He is widely regarded as one of the toughest players in the league, but beyond his athletic abilities, many are curious about Steven Adams’ ethnicity, heritage, and family roots. In this article, we will talk about his ethnic background and explore the cultural influences that have shaped his life and career.
Steven Adams Bio
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steven Funaki Adams |
| Birth Date | July 20, 1993 |
| Birth Place | Rotorua, New Zealand |
| Nationality | New Zealander |
| Ethnicity | Māori and English |
| Profession | Professional Basketball Player |
| NBA Draft | 12th overall pick (2013) |
| Current Team | Memphis Grizzlies (as of 2024) |
| Height | 7 ft 0 in (213 cm) |
| Weight | 265 lbs (120 kg) |
Born in Rotorua, New Zealand, Steven Adams has become one of the most recognizable New Zealanders in the NBA. Known for his toughness on the court, Adams carries the strength of his heritage and family background, which have played a significant role in his journey.
Steven Adams Ethnicity is Māori and English
Steven Adams’ ethnicity is a mix of Māori and English, reflecting his rich cultural heritage from both New Zealand’s indigenous Māori community and his father’s English roots.
The Māori people are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, known for their rich cultural traditions, including the famous haka, a traditional war dance. Adams’ connection to his Māori heritage is an integral part of his identity, and it is something he holds in high regard.
Adams’ father, Sid Adams, was of English descent, while his mother, Lilika Ngauamo, is of Tongan and Māori descent. This combination of cultures has influenced Adams’ life in various ways, from his values of respect, strength, and loyalty to his passion for representing his Māori roots on the international stage.
His Māori heritage also connects him to a legacy of strong family and community bonds, which have influenced his development as an athlete and a person.
Steven Adams has often spoken about his pride in his cultural heritage, particularly in his Māori background, which emphasizes physical strength, community, and perseverance. These values are reflected in his playing style, which is defined by his toughness, resilience, and commitment to his team.
Family Background of Steven Adams
Steven Adams was born into a large family, with 17 siblings in total. His father, Sid Adams, was an Englishman who moved to New Zealand after serving in the Royal Navy. Sid had 18 children with five different women, including Steven’s mother, Lilika Ngauamo, who is of Māori and Tongan descent.
Steven’s multicultural upbringing played a big role in shaping his identity and instilling in him the values of hard work and resilience.
One of Adams’ older siblings is Valerie Adams, a world-renowned shot-putter and two-time Olympic gold medalist. Coming from a family filled with athletes, Adams grew up in an environment that emphasized physical prowess and competitive spirit.
Although his father passed away when Steven was just 13 years old, the strong influence of his family—particularly his siblings—helped him develop the discipline and determination that would carry him to a successful career in the NBA.
About Steven Adams’ Family
| Family Member | Name |
|---|---|
| Father | Sid Adams |
| Mother | Lilika Ngauamo |
| Sister | Valerie Adams (Olympic Shot Putter) |
| Siblings | 17 Siblings |
Steven Adams comes from a large and athletic family, with many of his siblings excelling in sports. His sister, Valerie Adams, is one of the most successful athletes in New Zealand’s history, adding another layer to the Adams family’s impressive sporting legacy.
Despite the challenges of losing his father at a young age, Steven has spoken about the strength and guidance he received from his siblings, particularly his older brothers, who helped steer him in the right direction.
Steven Adams Career
Steven Adams’ basketball career began in New Zealand, where he first gained attention for his skills as a young player. His talent earned him a scholarship to attend Pitt University in the United States, where he played college basketball for the Pittsburgh Panthers.
After a strong freshman year, Adams declared for the NBA Draft and was selected 12th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2013.
Adams quickly made an impact in the NBA with his physical style of play, strong defense, and ability to anchor the team’s defense in the paint.
Known for his toughness and willingness to do the dirty work, Adams became a key player for the Thunder during his time with the team, contributing to their playoff runs alongside stars like Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook.
In 2020, Adams was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans, where he continued to display his skills as a dominant rebounder and shot-blocker. In 2021, he was traded again to the Memphis Grizzlies, where he has continued to thrive as a valuable veteran presence, helping to mentor younger players while contributing on both ends of the court.
Throughout his career, Adams has earned a reputation as one of the NBA’s most reliable and hard-working players. His journey from a small town in New Zealand to the highest level of basketball is a testament to his work ethic and determination.
More Info About Steven Adams
Steven Adams is more than just a tough basketball player; he is a cultural ambassador for New Zealand and the Māori community. His pride in his heritage and his humility have made him a beloved figure both in his home country and in the NBA.
Off the court, Adams is known for his down-to-earth personality, sense of humor, and charitable work, often giving back to the communities that have supported him.
Adams’ unique blend of Māori and English ethnicity gives him a rich cultural background, which he embraces both personally and professionally. His connection to his heritage is evident in his values, especially his focus on teamwork, loyalty, and respect for his teammates.
As one of the most successful athletes to come out of New Zealand, Adams continues to inspire young athletes from diverse backgrounds, showing them that with dedication and hard work, it’s possible to succeed at the highest level.
Steven Adams remains a key player in the NBA and a proud representative of his Māori and English heritage. Whether on the basketball court or in his community, Adams’ strength, perseverance, and humility continue to be the driving forces behind his success.
