Rotorua-born Steven Adams has risen from New Zealand’s north to become a starter for Oklahoma City Thunder in the United States National Basketball Association. In 2013, the 22-year-old became the first Kiwi to be picked in the first round of an NBA draft – he was selected 12th overall – and since then has earned a reputation as a tough competitor with a bold sense of humour. 

Kane Williams
Elite athletes such as New Zealand Sportsman of the Year and Wisden’s Leading Cricketer in the World, Kane Williamson, will benefit from the new Powerade formula, which replaces electrolytes, providing fast and effective hydration.

Steven joins a stellar line-up of sporting greats and proud ambassadors of the new Powerade ION4 including New Zealand Sportsman of the Year and Wisden’s Leading Cricketer in the World, Kane Williamson, as well as Olympic champion rower Mahé Drysdale.

“I’ve teamed up with Powerade as I know how important hydration is for me – whether that’s through training or playing a fierce game,” Steven said.

Containing potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium, the new Powerade ION4 is formulated to meet the needs of both elite and amateur athletes. It’s the first change to the product’s formulation since 2006.

“This new Powerade formula replaces electrolytes which really help with my post-match hydration,” Steven said.

Also supporting the launch of Powerade ION4 is the New South Wales Institute of Sport (NSWIS), which has been a long-term partner of the brand.

The principal scientist at the Institute, Dr Kenneth Graham, explains that athletes can only take in about one litre of fluid an hour during exercise, so drinking before and after exercise plays a critical role in ensuring peak performance and maintaining good health.

“Fluid losses in exercise can cause an athlete to become dehydrated and reduce their performance,” Dr Graham said. “Powerade ION4 is designed to promote fluid absorption and maintain hydration.”