FORT MYERS — Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) will honor the life and legacy of Luther James “Luke” Adams II, the first African American student to attend Edison Junior College, now FSW, and the college’s first African American basketball player, during the men’s basketball team’s first home game of the season Nov. 4 at Suncoast Credit Union Arena.

The tribute will begin at 4 p.m. with the unveiling of a new display case recognizing Adams’ place in the history of Edison Junior College and FSW. Family members will be presented with a special commemorative photo during a center court recognition before tipoff.

Adams, a native of LaBelle, enrolled at Edison Junior College in 1967, marking a significant moment in the history of higher education and athletics in Southwest Florida.

“My father’s life is not simply a sports story,” said his son, Rashad Shabazz. “It is the story of a young Black man from LaBelle who used education, faith, courage and athletic excellence to break through barriers that had been placed before Black students and athletes.”

His time at Edison Junior College helped change the landscape for African American students and athletes in the region.

“Luther Adams was a trailblazer,” said Dr. Jeff Allbritten, president of FSW. “His accomplishments reflect the courage it takes to create change, and his legacy is an important part of history in Southwest Florida. We are honored to recognize his contributions and create a lasting tribute in our Suncoast Credit Union Arena.”

Following his collegiate career, Adams was drafted in 1971 by both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Carolina Cougars. He eventually signed with the Cougars after reportedly driving 1,200 miles to personally secure a deal with Cougars President Carl Scheer.

Adams died July 31, 2026, in Fort Myers. He was 76. The City of Fort Myers proclaimed Aug. 1 as “Luther James Adams II Day” in recognition of his life and legacy.