“But a father figure for a lot of us who had the privilege of being coached by him. First impressions of him were always positive because of his contagious smile and swag.
“I’m one of many who have benefitted from him changing my life. Whether it was academics or on the court. He was always armed with a story/ legend to keep me on my path.
“He will live on through the memories and values he has given us.
“Thank you for believing in me.”
Among McFadden’s greatest achievements was Adams’ rise from Rotorua, to the Wellington Saints in New Zealand’s NBL, before making it in America.
McFadden’s tutelage saw Adams travel to the US, firstly to Notre Dame Prep school in Massachusetts, before playing college basketball with Pittsburgh in 2012.
In 2013, Adams was drafted by NBA side Oklahoma City Thunder, where he spent seven seasons before being traded to New Orleans Pelicans, who in turn traded him to Memphis Grizzlies for 2021/22.metasports
Taking to Twitter, Adams penned his own tribute to McFadden, who accepted the now-superstar into his training programme, and emphasised the completion of schoolwork that allowed Adams to secure his US scholarships.