Shakeem “Shak” Adams was a star at Florida Gulf Coast University, a three-time ASUN First Team player who scored 23 goals with 16 assists for the school. His professional career began with a storybook when the Nashville native Tenneessee was drafted by his hometown club Nashville SC in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft. “Overall it was a great feeling that I could be drafted and it was even better that it was from my hometown,” Shak told BGN.
But things took a turn for Adams when he was fired from the club ahead of the season. He said: “Getting released from a team will never be the best feeling for someone, but I didn’t want to think about being released, which is taking a toll on my game.”
He was signed by Tucson FC in the USL League One and became a key player last season. After taking the time to get used to the dry Arizona heat, Adams led the club by four goals and added two assists. “What helped me to achieve the greatest success last season was that I played faster and more aggressively on the offensive,” said the fast winger. “To get better, I have to keep trying to be aggressive throughout the season and not hit the wall of complacency.”
2021 will give him another chance to impress with Tucson FC. He said: “It was a huge tribute to Tucson FC for how well I played last season.” After finishing sixth in USL League One last season, Adams is confident in the 2021 roster. “We have the right pieces from top to bottom this year to have a lot of success and advance playoff time,” said Shak . “Tucson FC fans can look forward to seeing a polished team on both sides of the ball. Especially on the offensive we have some talented players who are sure to make the fans cheer! “
Death, Taxes and Shak Adams hits. That’s four games in a row with one goal for @shakeemadams! #TUCvRIC | @FCTucson pic.twitter.com/DgjIkRtEJU
– USL League One (@USLLeagueOne) September 6, 2020
Adams and Tucson FC will start their 2021 schedule on May 1 on the road against South Georgia Tormenta FC. While he is keen to help the club, which is only 22 years old, do special things this season, Shak will be ready if another chance arises in the MLS. “As a player who is young there will be more options and the next time you move up at a higher level I’ll take it and run with it,” said Shak.
This type of mindset can be traced back to Shak’s favorite athlete: the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant. Adams said: “Kobe means a lot to me, especially when it comes to how I handle the game. He always wanted to perfect his craft and be the best player he could be day in and day out. “
“For me, I try to be the best version of myself I can be and keep trying to be great.”
He always wants the world around him to be the best version of himself. Adams said he was reported to have seen all of the videos addressing racism, social injustice and racial inequality. “I don’t really talk about it in a public setting, but I try my best to do what I think can help privately,” he said.
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