Bam Adebayo scores 31 points in first quarter, breaks Heat record

The Miami Heat center set a franchise record for most points in a quarter, surpassing LeBron James' previous mark.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo had a historic first quarter against the Washington Wizards, scoring 31 points and breaking the franchise record for most points in a quarter previously held by LeBron James. Adebayo shot 10-of-16 from the field, including 5-of-8 from 3-point range, and went 6-of-7 from the free-throw line in the opening 12 minutes. His 31-point outburst was the most by any player in a single quarter this NBA season.

Why it matters

Adebayo is known primarily as a defensive stalwart, but his offensive explosion showcases his continued development as an all-around threat. The Heat will need Adebayo to maintain this level of scoring production if they hope to make a deep playoff run in the Eastern Conference.

The details

Adebayo's previous career-high for points in a game was 41, set in January 2021. He reached 43 points late in the second quarter against the Wizards, surpassing that mark. Before Tuesday, the most points scored in a quarter by any player this season was 27 by James Harden of the LA Clippers.

  • Adebayo scored 31 points in the first quarter on March 10, 2026.
  • The previous Heat franchise record for points in a quarter was 25 by LeBron James, set on March 18, 2014.

The players

Bam Adebayo

The Miami Heat center is known as one of the league's best defensive players, but he showcased his offensive prowess with a historic 31-point first quarter against the Washington Wizards.

LeBron James

The former Heat star held the franchise record for most points in a quarter at 25, which Adebayo surpassed on Tuesday night.

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What’s next

The Heat will look to Adebayo to continue his scoring outburst as they push for a high seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

The takeaway

Bam Adebayo's historic 31-point first quarter showcases his continued development as an offensive threat, not just a defensive stalwart. If he can maintain this level of scoring production, the Heat will be a formidable team in the Eastern Conference playoff race.