Bam Adebayo Joins Dwyane Wade as Heat's Only 10,000-Point Scorers

The 27-year-old center has evolved into an offensive force after being drafted as a defensive specialist.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Bam Adebayo, the Miami Heat's 27-year-old center, has reached a career milestone by becoming only the second player in franchise history to score 10,000 points, joining former Heat star Dwyane Wade. Adebayo was initially drafted as a defensive specialist, but has since developed into an offensive force for the team.

Why it matters

Adebayo's achievement is a testament to his growth as a player and the Heat's ability to develop young talent. Reaching the 10,000-point mark is a significant milestone that solidifies Adebayo's status as one of the team's all-time great players.

The details

Adebayo, who was drafted by the Heat in 2017 after just one season at the University of Kentucky, was initially viewed as a defensive-minded player. However, he has since expanded his game and become a dominant two-way player, averaging over 20 points per game in recent seasons.

  • Bam Adebayo was drafted by the Miami Heat in 2017 after one season at the University of Kentucky.
  • Adebayo reached the 10,000-point milestone on March 9, 2026.

The players

Bam Adebayo

A 27-year-old center for the Miami Heat who has evolved into an offensive force after being drafted as a defensive specialist.

Dwyane Wade

A former Miami Heat star and the only other player in franchise history to score 10,000 points.

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What they’re saying

“I'm someone who got drafted to play defense, and everybody thinking I was just a lob threat.”

— Bam Adebayo

The takeaway

Bam Adebayo's achievement of becoming the second player in Miami Heat history to score 10,000 points demonstrates the team's ability to develop young talent and the player's own dedication to improving his game beyond his initial defensive-focused role.