Steven Adams sporting a drastic new look with missing dreadlocks and covered tattoos in striking old photos
Hulking NBA Giant: Steven Adams' Tattooed, Bearded Journey
Steven Adams, the bearded, arm-tattooed, 6-foot-9 NASCAR of the NBA court, is a force you'd never miss. This utter beast wasn't always the man we see today; his NBA adventure started rather plainly.
Once upon a time, when the fresh-faced rookie was lining up for the draftees, he sported a classic short back and sides haircut, free from any ink sabotages. But that was before the 2013 NBA draft, where the Oklahoma City Thunder selected him with the 12th pick, making him the second New Zealander to join the ranks.
As his NBA journey unfolded, Adams began to establish himself as an irrepressible force in the Thunder's frontcourt, growing his hair long, his beard voluminous, and covering his arms with vibrant tattoos. This was the look we all came to know and love. In 2016, his satisfying transformation was finalized with a show-stopping four-year, $100 million contract.
The 2019-20 season marked the end of Adams' Oklahoma City reign. Following a career-average season of 10.9 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, he was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans, bringing a close to seven years of Thunderball action. His Pelicans stint proved to be brief, as he spent just one season there before joining the Memphis Grizzlies. Unfortunately, a knee injury sidelined him for nearly 21 months, missing most of the 2022/23 season and the entire 2023/24 season.
However, now that he's back on his feet and sporting the Rockets' red, Adams is once again making a name for himself. Early in 2025, he became the first player in NBA history to shoot 100% from the field, attempt 15 or more free throws, block three or more shots, and have zero turnovers between the regular season and playoffs.
Critics may say he's just a big, tough-looking guy with a bad attitude. But they don't understand the grit and determination Adams possesses. His new teammate, Draymond Green, appreciates his impact on the court, complimenting his efforts on both offensive and defensive rebounds.
As the Golden State Warriors and Adams' Rockets clash in their final 2025 playoff game, you can bet that this giant of a man will continue to leave a lasting impact on the league.
Additional NBA Tidbits
- Who says you can't look good in a suit? James Harden looks completely unrecognizable without his signature beard.
- Nikola Jokic's throwback snaps have the internet in a frenzy; they just can't believe it's the Nuggets star.
- The eternal what-if's: Both LeBron James and Kevin Durant have garnered more attention for the franchises they didn't join than the ones they did.
[1] Steven Adams' Career Stats
[2] NBA
[3] NBA – Records and Individual Leaders
[4] Steven Adams Wiki
[5] NBA Player Gets Peculiar Stat Line in Playoffs
- By 2025, Steven Adams, the towering NBA star known for his tattoos and voluminous beard, made history by becoming the first player to shoot 100% from the field, attempt 15 or more free throws, block three or more shots, and have zero turnovers between the regular season and playoffs.
- Despite his aggressive appearance, many overlook Adams' true basketball skills. Draymond Green, his teammate, recognizes his contributions on both offensive and defensive rebounds.
- In the NBA, Steven Adams' journey began in 2013 when the Oklahoma City Thunder drafted him with the 12th pick, making him the second New Zealander to join the league.
- In 2025, spectators will be intrigued to see how the now-recovered Adams fares in his matches with the Golden State Warriors, as he continues to etch his mark in the sports world of basketball and the NBA.
