In a shocking move, New Zealand’s NBA star Steven Adams has announced his decision to leave the league and sign with the Shanghai Sharks of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) for the 2026-2027 season. Adams, 32, played for the Oklahoma City Thunder and later the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA, earning him the nickname “The Towering Center” for his impressive 7-foot-2 frame and dominant presence on the court. With a storied 11-year career in the NBA, Adams has cemented his status as one of the greatest New Zealand-born basketball players of all time.
Adams’ decision to join the CBA marks a significant shift in his career, with many speculating that he seeks to extend his playing days and potentially compete in the Olympics for New Zealand. The Shanghai Sharks, with Adams on board, are expected to be a top contender for the 2026-2027 CBA championship title. Adams’ signing is seen as a major coup for the CBA, which has been actively recruiting top talent from around the world to elevate the league’s profile.
While the exact reasons behind Adams’ decision are unclear, his agent has stated that the opportunity to compete at an elite level and contribute to the growth of basketball in China were key factors in his decision. As Adams embarks on this new chapter in his career, fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see how he performs in the CBA and whether he can help bring a championship title to the Shanghai Sharks.