Marcus Adams Jr. transfers to Gonzaga: How does he fit in Mark Few's system?
Marcus Adams Jr. spent approximately one month in Lawrence, Kansas, before deciding it wasn't a good fit. One week later, the 6-foot-8 freshman announced Gonzaga as his new home.
Adams, a former 4-star recruit who reclassified to 2023, becomes the Zags' fourth transfer this offseason. He also had interest from West Virginia, BYU, Oregon, Missouri, Boston College, Mississippi State and UC Santa Barbara.
A big versatile wing, Adams brings a multitude of skills to Gonzaga. He's quick enough to create and knock down shots around the perimeter, while his size allows him to finish around the rim in traffic. His physical frame also gives him an edge on the defensive end, enabling him to guard various positions effectively.
Adams averaged 28.8 points and 6.8 rebounds in 27 games last season for Narbonne High School in Harbor City, California. He scored at least 40 points in three outings, including a 50-point, 21-rebound performance in an 84-68 victory over San Pedro on January 11.
Adams' role on the team this season appears uncertain, especially given Gonzaga's depth at the wing position. Eastern Washington transfer Steele Venters is expected to fill the team's starting small forward spot, which opened up following the departure of first-round NBA draft pick Julian Strawther. Adams will also be competing for minutes with incoming freshmen Jun Seok Yeo and Dusty Stromer.
However, playing time wasn't the main factor in Adams' transfer from Kansas to Gonzaga, according to his statement to The Kansas City Star.
"I see everybody in the (online) comments and some reporters saying it was about playing time … it’s not," Adams said. "I felt like I would have been good there if I stayed, but I had a gut and heart feeling."
Fans should view the acquisition of Adams as a forward-looking move, with an eye toward the future. While he likely won't generate double-digit scoring numbers as a freshman, Adams will get to develop behind premier talent before stepping into a bigger role.
