FSW to Honor Luther Adams II Before Home Opener

Florida SouthWestern State College will recognize the late Luther James "Luke" Adams II, its first African American basketball player, before its Nov. 4 men's basketball home opener.

Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Basketball

Empty indoor basketball court with polished hardwood and a center-court circle under warm overhead light, evoking a quiet moment of remembrance. — Florida SouthWestern State College will honor the late Luther James "Luke" Adams II, its first African American basketball player, before its Nov. 4 men's home opener. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Florida SouthWestern State College will honor Luther James "Luke" Adams II before its men's basketball home opener on Nov. 4. Adams, the first African American student to attend Edison Junior College, died in July at age 76 in Fort Myers.

Why it matters

The tribute recognizes Adams' role in the college's integration and athletic history. Fort Myers has also marked his legacy with a city proclamation.

Adams averaged about 20 points and more than 20 rebounds per game at Edison Junior College. At Lamar Tech he averaged 19.3 points and 10.7 rebounds across 48 games from 1969 to 1971.

The players

Florida SouthWestern State College

A public college in Fort Myers that is hosting the tribute and home opener at Suncoast Credit Union Arena.

Luther James "Luke" Adams II

A pioneering basketball player and the first African American student to attend Edison Junior College, who later played at Lamar Tech.

The details

Family members will receive a commemorative photo at center court before tipoff, and a new display case recognizing Adams' place in college history will be unveiled at 4 p.m. in the area lobby. Adams was also drafted in 1971 by the Los Angeles Lakers and the Carolina Cougars.

1969 to 1971: Adams plays 48 games at Lamar Tech.
1971: Adams is named Southland Conference MVP.
Aug. 1: Fort Myers proclaims Luther James Adams II Day.
Nov. 4: FSW honors Adams before the men's basketball home opener at 5 p.m.

Roadmap

Adams' pioneering role at Edison Junior College connects to the broader desegregation of Florida's public colleges during the 1960s. His story frames the tribute as recognition of early integration in Southwest Florida athletics.

Fans attending the Nov. 4 home opener can see the tribute and display case unveiling in the lobby beginning at 4 p.m. Tickets for the game are available through the college's arena ticketing site.

The takeaway

Honoring early integration pioneers keeps local sports history visible to new fans. Attending events like this one is a direct way to recognize the people who opened doors for others.