Steven Adams 2018 NBA Sportsmanship Award finalist

Oklahoma City’s Steven Adams has been named one of six finalists for the NBA’s Sportsmanship  Award.

For Steven Adams being named a finalist points to how far he has progressed in his professional career. Not long ago, Adams was named the dirtiest player in the NBA.

The Sportsmanship award is given out in June to the player who “exemplifies ethical behavior, fair play and integrity.” Steven Adams averaged 13.9 points and nine rebounds in his best season regular as a pro and is one of the league’s top centers.

The previous three winners of the award include Kemba Walker, Mike Conley and Kyle Korver. Detroit Piston, Joe Dumars was the first winner of the award which dates back to the 1995-96 season.

Consequently, Russell Westbrook is also in the running for best style, along with former Thunder guard James Harden.

In addition, Adams and Westbrook are currently working to help OKC advance past the Utah Jazz in round one of the playoffs. The pair have proven to be one of basketball’s best dynamic duos with the league’s highest assist combo.

Westbrook is also in the running to repeat as league MVP. Russ recorded 20 rebounds and 19 assists in the season finale against Memphis. In doing so, Westbrook became the first player to ever average a triple-double twice. As a result, Westbrook’s second consecutive trip-dub average featured 25.4 points, 10.3 assists and 10.1 rebounds per game.

While Westbrook is known for his intensity on and off the court, Steven Adams is seen as humorous and fun loving. Most of all, Adams often demonstrates his playful attitude. It’s common for Steven Adams to discuss his love for anime or show off his Fortnite wins on social media.

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Steven Adams gets paid and applauded for his all-out hustle and attitude on the court, but his character shines well after the whistle blows.