Wayne Adams, Sr, a native Houstonian, began his athletic journey in the 7th grade with the Kashmere Jr. High School Track Team. For 2 years under Coach Webster Williams, Wayne would display the speed and endurance that would later help define his game on the hardwood. In his 9th grade year, he would venture into basketball where he would begin developing his skills and leadership ability at the starting point guard position. Once at Kashmere High School, under the guidance of Coach Weldon Drew, Wayne would become the starting point guard and Captain of the 1971 Fighting Rams’ basketball team. “The Pro” was known for his speed and defensive prowess, and for being a ‘pass first’ guard who sought to put his teammates in the best position to score. Playing in the neighborhood with older cousin Jimmy and friend Henry, he learned quickly passing the ball would get him chosen. Wayne received All-District honors as a senior year while leading the Rams to an 18-12 record. He would receive a scholarship offer from Morgan State University but elected to stay near his family in Houston.
After a brief stint at Texas Southern University, he entered the workforce spending most of his career in the OCTG and Steel industry. He would begin at the Armco Steel division in 1973 where he worked as a refractory mason until the mill’s closure in 1983. Wayne would spend a few years working in Supervisory role at Continental Airlines (now United) before returning to the Steel and OCTG industry. He continued at Tex-Tube Steel division as a Crane and heavy equipment operator but would finish his career and retire in 2017 as a CDL driver for Triple-S Steel.
Reared in a Christian home, Wayne was always aware of the presence of the Lord, but it was in 1986 that his relationship with Christ would be truly established. As a member of the New Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, he devoted himself to the study of the Scriptures and to becoming a man of prayer. As his walk with Christ deepened, Wayne’s heart for others, his humility and selflessness became more evident as he freely gave his time, energy, and materials to anyone who had the need. Wayne was actively involved in the Men’s Ministry, Hospitality Committee, and the Men’s Choir. He would later join the Cooks for Christ ministry where he would serve faithfully until his passing.
Wayne was the proud father to Wayne, Gerald, and Meghan Adams and grandfather to David, Cameron, Matthew, Myles, Madison, Kyle and Kevin.
On behalf of our father, we are humbled and so honored to represent and witness the induction of Wayne Adams, Sr. into the Kashmere Former Athletes Association’s Ring of Honor.