After insisting he would return for his second year at University of Pittsburgh, Adams, half brother of double Olympic shot put champion Valerie, has changed his mind and will sign with an agent, thereby forfeiting his final three seasons of college eligibility.
The 2.1m centre announced his intentions yesterday in a statement released by Pitt's athletic department.
"In discussing options with my family and coach [Jamie] Dixon, I feel that it is in my best interest to declare for the NBA draft," Adams said.
"I want to thank everyone at Pitt, including my teammates, coaching staff, the administration and the fans who have all supported me over the last year."
Before his freshman college season, Adams (19) was rated as a possible top 10 NBA draft pick, but has slipped down the rankings because of some indifferent form throughout the year. He is still expected to be drafted in the first round.
Adams was named the Big East's preseason Rookie of the Year and was selected to the conference's All-Rookie team after averaging 7.2 points a game and leading the Panthers in blocked shots (65), rebounding (6.3) and field goal percentage (.571) in 32 starts.
The Panthers reached the NCAA basketball championships last month before losing to Wichita State 73-55 in the opening round. Adams led the side with 13 points and 11 rebounds in the defeat.
"After talking with Steven and his family, we fully support him in this decision," Dixon said. "We support him in choosing to pursue his dreams and in having the opportunity to provide for his family back in New Zealand."
The draft is scheduled for June 27 at New York's Madison Square Garden.
If drafted, Adams would be the third New Zealander to play in the NBA, following on from Sean Marks and Kirk Penney.
