HOUSTON – The Houston Rockets have secured a key piece of their frontcourt. Center Steven Adams will return to the Rockets for another three years after agreeing to a $39 million extension, solidifying his role alongside Alperen Şengün in head coach Ime Udoka’s evolving lineup. Shams Charania of ESPN first reported the news.
OFFICIAL: Rockets Sign Impactful Veteran, Steven Adams To A $39M Extension
Adams’ extension with the Rockets comes just ahead of free agency, removing one of the most experienced and impactful centers from the market. The fully guaranteed deal signals Houston’s commitment to building continuity around its emerging core.
Adams, 31, was set to hit free agency following the expiration of a two-year, $25.2 million contract initially signed with Memphis. But after returning to form in Houston, both sides moved quickly to secure a future together.
Stability After Injury, Results in the Playoffs
Adams missed the entire 2023–24 season due to knee surgery. His return in 2024–25 required some adjustment. Udoka experimented with a dual-big lineup featuring Adams and Şengün, giving the Rockets a new look on defense and the boards.
Though he shifted between the starting five and the bench early on, Adams soon became a steady contributor. He played in 58 regular-season games, averaging 3.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in just under 14 minutes per game.
His value didn’t come through box scores alone.
According to NBA.com, Adams led the league in offensive rebounding percentage (18.1%) among players with at least 50 appearances. That rebounding strength helped Houston finish the season as the NBA’s best offensive rebounding team.
Big Minutes in Big Moments
In the postseason, Adams’ impact became even more apparent. He averaged 22.1 minutes during the Rockets’ seven-game run, posting 5.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per contest.
Against Golden State in the first round, he anchored a zone defense that frustrated the Warriors. The Rockets were plus-44 with Adams on the floor and minus-44 when he sat. That swing made it clear how vital he had become in just one season with the team.
Steven Adams’ extension with the Rockets not only rewards that production but also ensures veteran leadership remains in place as Houston pushes deeper into the playoff picture.
Long-Term Vision Begins to Take Shape
The front office sees Adams as a foundational part of a roster designed to grow together. His deal reflects their intent to prioritize chemistry and depth rather than make short-term splashes.
Sources said Adams’ representatives at Wasserman finalized the contract with Rockets officials before the June 30 extension deadline. Houston still must decide on Fred VanVleet’s $44.9 million team option by June 29. Reports suggest mutual interest in bringing the guard back.
If VanVleet returns, Houston will sit right at the second tax apron. That financial threshold now serves as a barrier in the new collective bargaining agreement. But for general manager Rafael Stone and his team, the message is clear—they want to win now, with the group they’ve built.
Houston aims to contend, and Adams’ toughness, rebounding, and playoff experience give them an edge in a loaded Western Conference. After finishing second in the standings last season, the Rockets are betting on continuity to carry them further.
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