Michigan native Kenny McFadden came to New Zealand in 1982 after playing at Washington State University. In his first year he guided the Saints to the Second Division title before carrying the club to six straight NBL finals finishing as champions on four occasions. He played 252 NBL games in his career, exceeding 5000 career points at over 20 points per game – his #5 jersey retired in his honour.
Following his retirement in 1996 Kenny became heavily involved in junior player development setting up his own Hoops Academy in the capital. He coached the Junior Tall Blacks at the 2009 FIBA U19 World Cup – a team that produced Tall Blacks Rob Loe, Brooke Ruscoe and Dion Prewster. He also had stints as assistant coach of his beloved Saints.
As has been well documented Kenny took 14-year-old Steven Adams under his wing and guided the Kiwis rise to the NBA. Saints GM Jordan Mills paid tribute to Kenny McFadden after his tragic passing in 2022 aged 61.
“He was an icon of our club, our sport and also the community. He could just connect with anyone, regardless of race, religion, or gender, he was able to get through to them. There’re tens of thousands of kids whose hearts he’s touched. He devoted his life to helping everyone and anyone get better.”
And from Steven Adams “Kenny McFadden was not just a coach but a father figure for a lot of us. I’m one of many who have benefitted from him changing my life. He will live on through the memories and values he has given us.”
I invite Kenny’s close friend, Angelo Robinson, to come forward to accept induction into the Hall of Fame on Kenny’s behalf.
