The Hooks ISD ACE Program along with Hooks ISD welcomed former Harlem Globetrotter and NCAA All-American basketball player, Melvin Adams, to its campus on Tuesday, April 12.
Throughout the school day, Adams shared compelling and motivational stories about character, education, and overall personal growth to all students.
Marli Garrett and Trey Pardue, both sophomores at Hook High School and crew members of Hornet TV conducted an interview with Adams Tuesday afternoon.
Adams an NCAA All-American basketball player, professional basketball competitor and member of the world famous Harlem Globetrotter is currently a communicator and entertainer who uses comedy, and an energetic presentation style to relate and engage young students.
Adams succeeds at making every member of his audience laugh while also inspiring them to think about real situations and encouraging students to follow their dreams despite life circumstances.
Adams was born in 1971 and grew up in the ghetto of Houston, Texas and was faced with multiple challenges early in life and extremely negative circumstances; however, he always dreamed of playing professional basketball.
At the age of 13, his father died, leaving behind a consistent pressure of financial burdens which surrounded Adams with hopeless situations. Though the odds were not in his favor, Adams chose to channel his energy into something positive, thus turning to basketball.
Melvin turned to sports where hard work and endless practices kept him from trouble. During these years, he led the district in assists and steals, and averaged 16 points per game for the Eisenhower High School’s Eagles.
Melvin graduated from San Jose Christian College where he was a two-time NCAA III All-American basketball player. He remains the all-time scoring, assists and steals leader in the Warrior’s history. After college, Melvin continued to focus on basketball and was given the opportunity to play professional basketball. He later joined the Harlem Globetrotters and was named Mr. Globetrotter numerous times. The award is presented yearly to the teammate that most exemplifies the excitement and energy associated with the Harlem Globetrotters.
On March 17, 2000 Melvin Adams retired from the Harlem Globetrotters to fulfill a new dream – to challenge individuals to personal success through focus, work and determination. Today, he travels the country reaching student and adult audiences, and sharing his life story and inspiring others to fulfill their dreams.
Melvin has had the opportunity to speak to more than 3,000,000 youth through school assemblies, basketball clinics/camps and other events. In addition to speaking responsibilities, he is also frequently engaged in interviews and guest appearances in various forms of media.
Melvin’s passion for reaching America’s youth has provided countless opportunities to speak, perform and inspire thousands of young adults. “I make kids laugh into their destiny,” said Adams.
