NewsTribune Athlete of the Week: Earlville’s Adam Waite

Earlville senior Adam Waite has been a double-double machine this season, averaging 17.1 points and 11.2 rebounds per game.

He had a huge week last week to help the Red Raiders to a pair of Little Ten Conference wins over Leland and DePue.

Against Leland, Waite poured in 41 points, grabbed 26 rebounds and dished out four assists. He followed that by scoring 21 points against DePue to surpass 1,000 for his career while also recording 11 rebounds and five assists.

“Adam accomplished quite a bit last week with 41 points against Leland and 21 points against DePue to break the 1,000 career point mark,” Earlville coach Gerald Fruit said. “In these two games, he shot 70% from the 2-point range, 50% from the 3-point range and 67% from the free throw line. He also had 37 rebounds and nine assists. He also has had double-doubles in points and rebounds in his last seven games.

“By anybody’s standards, I would say Adam had a great week and did so in a selfless manner. Adam has worked hard and I believe truly loves the game of basketball, and myself, his teammates, coaches, family and fans are very happy for him and proud of his accomplishments.”

For his performance, Waite was voted the NewsTribune Athlete of the Week, sponsored by Sullivan’s and Grasser’s Plumbing & Heating.

Waite answered some questions from NewsTribune sports editor Kevin Chlum.

When did you start playing basketball and how did you get into it?

Waite: I started playing around fourth grade. Living in the country, the only cool thing we had was a basketball hoop, so that’s what I spent most of my time doing outside of school.

What do you enjoy about playing basketball?

Waite: I enjoy winning games the most, but outside of that, I have always enjoyed the bonds created with all my teammates.

What makes you a good basketball player?

Waite: What makes me a good player is my size and how I can stretch the floor. I can handle the ball, shoot, pass, all of it pretty good for my size. My court vision and ability to make things happen sets me apart from the rest.

What is your favorite sports memory?

Waite: My favorite memory is winning the [Route 17 Classic] Thanksgiving tournament last year.

Who’s the best athlete you’ve ever competed against?

Waite: The best athlete I’ve competed with would probably be (2024 Earlville graduate) Griffin Cook. It was always a battle in practice with him, because he would do anything to outwork you.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

Waite: Probably somewhere tropical like the Bahamas. It would be cool to grab a coconut off a tree, crack it open and sip on it.

What is your most played song recently?

Waite: ‘In the Air Tonight’ by Phil Collins.

With what food could you win an eating contest?

Waite: Definitely Oreos. I eat almost a row most nights before bed.

What are your plans after high school?

Waite: Go play college basketball and major in accounting.

What are your thoughts on your individual performance last week?

Waite: I feel like all the buttons were clicking. The whole team started playing well, and that’s when I turn up and do my thing.