Ben Adams was a stellar point guard for the Westfield State men’s basketball team from 1972-75. He was an all-conference selection and team captain in each of his three varsity seasons at Westfield State. The Owls compiled a 48-20 during his collegiate career and his teammates included Westfield State Hall of Fame inductees Tom Parks and Tim Parker. 

A highly regarded defensive player, Adams also excelled offensively. He scored 869 points despite missing 10 games early in his senior season because of a knee injury. The 5-11 guard made many of his baskets from long range in an era before the 3-point shot. He averaged 13 points, 8.3 assists and 6.8 rebounds as a three-year starter. 

Adams first enrolled at Westfield State in 1969, joining fellow Springfield natives Bud Williams and Sam Bass as the first students in the college’s urban education program. He also had the distinct honor of being the first African America captain of the men’s basketball team. In August of 1970, Adams was drafted into the armed forces and served a tour of duty in Vietnam. In addition to playing basketball upon his return to Westfield State in 1972, Adams served as the head resident advisor of the men’s dorm for two years. 

After receiving his criminal justice degree in 1975, Adams moved to Phoenix and worked as a correctional service officer. He returned to Westfield State in 1977 and served as an assistant basketball coach for two years. 

Adams relocated to Boston for approximately 10 years, then returned to his hometown of Springfield in 1988 and was employed as a deputy sheriff for five years. He is currently employed by the Health and Human Services Department, working as HIV/AIDS prevention coordinator. Over the years, Adams has worked very closely with the health services department at Westfield State. 

Adams has been highly visible and active in the Springfield community. He has served as a board member on several HIV/AIDS prevention organizations and has received numerous certificates of appreciation for his volunteer work in the African-American community. He also has been involved with the Greater Springfield Pro-Am Basketball League for the past six years.