Skip to main content
Thunder name Steven Adams starting center

Thunder coach Scott Brooks names Steven Adams starting center

  • Author:
  • Publish date:

Steven Adams will be the Thunder's starting center on opening day, Oklahoma City coach Scott Brooks told reporters Tuesday.

Adams, in his second year in the league, won the job over incumbent starter Kendrick Perkins, an 11-year veteran.

The 29-year-old Perkins has started each of 222 games he has played with the organization. Adams started 20 games last season when Perkins was injured.

• Report: Warriors co-owner Peter Guber used 'hoodish' in email​

Adams, 21, averaged 3.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 0.7 blocks per game in just under 15 minutes of playing time last season, while Perkins averaged 3.4 points, 4.9 rebounds and 0.5 blocks per contest during 19.5 minutes of court time. 

Oklahoma City will be without reigning MVP Kevin Durant until at least the end of November, after he fractured a bone in his foot. Adams, a native of New Zealand, was the 12th pick in the 2013 draft. He played one season at the University of Pittsburgh. 

• Record 101 international players on NBA rosters to open season

The Thunder open the season against the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday. 

- Brad Rowland

© 2024 ABG-SI LLC. SPORTS ILLUSTRATED IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF ABG-SI LLC. - All Rights Reserved. The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only. All betting content is intended for an audience ages 21+. All advice, including picks and predictions, is based on individual commentators’ opinions and not that of Minute Media or its related brands. All picks and predictions are suggestions only. No one should expect to make money from the picks and predictions discussed on this website. For more information, please read our Legal Disclaimer. Gambling content intended for 21+. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.