LAS VEGAS – Longtime NBA assistant coach Ron Adams, who’s preparing for his ninth season with the Warriors, was honored this week for his dedication to the game and passion for developing players for 30 years in the NBA and more than a half-century in basketball.
Adams, 74, was named the recipient of this year’s Assistant Coach Lifetime Impact Award, the National Basketball Coaches Association announced Tuesday.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr said Adams is “so deserving” of the honor because of his contributions to the game over 54 years of coaching.
“He’s given so much to so many people and not only the knowledge but mentorship and friendship and I know for me, I just love seeing him every day,” Kerr said in a phone interview Tuesday. “I love just visiting with him. He has a great way about him, great knowledge of the world and what’s happening out there and just somebody who’s just fun to talk to every day. He’s been a great friend and a great colleague.”
Pacers coach and NBCA President Rick Carlisle said Adams “embodies everything that makes a great coach.
“He is passionate about teaching, has a great basketball IQ, a tireless work ethic, fierce loyalty, and a deep love for the game,” Carlisle said in a written statement. “His efforts and dedication have earned him four NBA titles in the last eight years and the respect of players and coaches throughout the league.”
Adams said he was “honored and very humbled” to receive this year’s award. He thanked his wife, Leah, and two children, Jerid and Hayley, for their support over the years. He also gave a shoutout to the many head coaches he’s worked with over the last three decades, including Steve Kerr, Brad Stevens, Tom Thibodeau, Scott Brooks, Jim Boylan, Bill Cartwright, George Karl, John Lucas and Jerry Tarkanian.
“So many great people, educators, and coaches have helped shape my career,” Adams said in a statement. “Your instruction, encouragement, and correction were invaluable, and I am grateful beyond words.”
Adams continued, “Lastly, and most important, I want to thank all the NBA players I worked with over the past 30 years who have brought joy and meaning to my life. Watching you grow as players and as men is the real highlight of my career.”
Adams has been part of seven NBA franchises in the last 30 years. He started his NBA journey with the San Antonio Spurs, initially joining Tarkanian’s staff before he was replaced by Lucas. He later went on to stops in Philadelphia (1994-96), Milwaukee (1998-2003), Chicago (2003-08 and 2010-2013), Oklahoma City (2008-10) and Boston (2013-14) before he joined the Warriors.
Adams began his coaching career in 1969 as an assistant coach at his alma mater, Fresno Pacific. He went on to coach collegiate ball for more than two decades and was a part of numerous programs, including UC Santa Barbara, Fresno State, UNLV and Drake. He also served as the head coach at Fresno Pacific (1972-75) and Fresno State (1986-90).
Draymond Green has already had his No. 23 jersey retired at Michigan State. But the four-time NBA champion will further cement his Spartan legacy this fall when he’s inducted into MSU Athletics’ Hall of Fame.
Green was named National Player of the Year his senior season (2011-12) when he posted 16.2 points, 10.6 rebounds and 3.8 assists in 37 games. He helped the Spartans to back-to-back Final Four runs in his first two seasons that included a national championship game appearance in 2009. The Saginaw, Michigan, native also led the team to a Big Ten Tournament title in 2012.
Green is the school’s all-time leader in rebounds and is one of just three Spartans to record 1,000 rebounds and 1,000 points. His three career triple-doubles are second in program history only to Earvin “Magic” Johnson.
Green learned of his Hall of Fame election just a few short days after winning the NBA title last month.
“I had chills all the way down my arms,” he said in a statement on the school’s website. “I couldn’t believe it. I kept saying, ‘wow.’ I then called my wife Hazel who is also an MSU grad.
“To be mentioned with guys like Mateen Cleaves, Magic Johnson, Steve Smith, Bubba Smith and Kirk Gibson is absolutely mind-blowing to me,” he continued. “It’s an incredible honor. Michigan State was my dream school since I was a child, but the Hall of Fame never even crossed my mind.”
LeBron James took to Twitter to congratulate his friend, writing “Yessir!!!!! Congrats my brother” which was accompanied by several celebratory emojis.
The 2022 Hall of Fame induction ceremony is scheduled for Sept. 9.
