The US Athletic Hall of Fame - Contributors 2023

Bud Adams

Contest: The US Athletic Hall of Fame - Contributors 2023
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Sport(s): Football Owner
Statistics: 2 AFL Championships (1960 & 1961)

Member of the Houston/Tennessee Oilers/Titans Ring of Honor
Bud Adams had dreams of owning a National Football League team, and he was not alone. Along with Lamar Hunt, Adams would help found the American Football League in 1960. Adams owned the Houston Oilers, and his team won the first two AFL Championships. While Hunt was one of the more known figures in the AFL's origin story, Adams played a large part behind the scenes as well.

The Oilers would have their ups and downs, and Adams, who was often known for his micromanaging, became less and less popular in Houston. Seeking a new stadium, Adams moved the team to Tennessee in 1995, bringing the state their first major sports team.

Adams died in 2012, and while he left behind a complicated legacy in Houston, his work in football was easily a net-positive.

Adams would also own the Houston Mavericks of the ABA and the Nashville Kats of the Arena League.

We are proud to nominate Bud Adams for the United States Athletic Hall of Fame.