In today’s college basketball landscape, many programs focus on adding experienced veterans from the transfer portal to bolster their rosters. While elite freshmen like Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper and Derik Queen make headlines at high-major programs, mid-major stars often take years to develop into the players they were destined to become.
But in Kennesaw, Georgia, Adrian Wooley is rewriting that narrative. The Kennesaw State freshman is turning heads, dominating the mid-major level and emerging as one of the best-kept secrets in college basketball.
Long before his arrival at Kennesaw State, Wooley’s basketball journey began in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where hoop dreams were a family tradition.
“I started playing basketball at the age of 5,” Wooley said. “It was something that ran in the family — my brother, dad, cousins and uncles all played.”
Wooley’s passion for the game grew through his high school years at Paul W. Bryant High School, where he showcased his talent with a breakout junior season, averaging 19.7 points per game. His impressive performance earned him attention from several Division I programs.
“I had 13 D-I offers other than Kennesaw,” Wooley said. “Samford, Louisiana Tech, Saint Bonaventure and Richmond were a few of the schools recruiting me.”
Despite a promising list of suitors, Wooley chose Kennesaw State, a decision he says felt right from the start.
“I love the atmosphere here,” Wooley said. “I just felt like it was the best fit for me.”
Kennesaw State’s men’s basketball program has experienced its share of highs and lows in recent years. Under the leadership of the late Amir Abdur-Rahim, the Owls transformed from a 1-28 team into NCAA Tournament contenders, coming within minutes of upsetting Xavier in the 2023 tournament. The program has also navigated a conference shift from the ASUN to Conference USA while mourning the tragic loss of Abdur-Rahim in October 2024.
Now, as the program begins a new chapter, Wooley is leading the charge as a true freshman.
On the season, Wooley is averaging 18.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, and shooting 51.6% from the field and 39.6% from beyond the arc. His stellar play, combined with contributions from fellow freshmen Jamil Miller and Braeden Lue, has propelled the Owls to an 11-7 record, including 3-2 in Conference USA play. The trio has also dominated weekly honors, with Kennesaw State freshman taking home the conference’s Freshman of the Week accolade on numerous occasions.
For Wooley, his success comes down to relentless effort.
“It’s just a blessing to see that my work is showing,” Wooley said. “I’ve learned that I can have success if I keep on going.”
Off the court, Wooley is learning to navigate the challenges of being a student and an athlete.
“I feel like being a freshman is a life switch,” he said. “It’s taught me how to be on my own and how important time management is.”
This maturity, rare for a first-year player, has been key to Wooley’s emergence as one of the most exciting young players in the country. His growth symbolizes a bright future not only for himself but also for Kennesaw State basketball.
As the city of Kennesaw rallies around Wooley and his teammates, the college basketball world has taken notice. And somewhere in heaven, Amir Abdur-Rahim is smiling, knowing the legacy he built is in good hands.
