Bam Adebayo Scores 83 Points, Second-Most in NBA History

Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo sets franchise record and second-highest single-game scoring total in NBA history

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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In a historic performance, Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo scored 83 points in a 150-129 victory over the Washington Wizards, the second-highest single-game scoring total in NBA history behind only Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game. Adebayo, a three-time All-Star and five-time All-Defensive Team selection, set franchise records for points and free throws made (36) in a game, showcasing an unexpected scoring outburst from a player who had never scored more than 41 points in an NBA contest.

Why it matters

Adebayo's performance is a remarkable achievement, as he is not known as a high-volume scorer, averaging just 18.9 points per game this season. His ability to take over a game and score at a historic rate highlights his continued development as an all-around player and the depth of talent on the Heat roster, which was missing several key contributors due to injury.

The details

Adebayo caught fire early, knocking down four 3-pointers in the first half and scoring 43 points by halftime. He continued his onslaught in the second half, drawing numerous fouls and converting 36 of his 43 free throw attempts. The Wizards struggled to contain Adebayo, who repeatedly drove to the basket and overpowered defenders, leading to a parade of trips to the foul line.

  • Adebayo scored 30 points in the first quarter, tying a franchise record.
  • Adebayo surpassed his previous career-high of 41 points before halftime.
  • Adebayo broke the Heat's franchise scoring record of 61 points in the third quarter.
  • Adebayo finished the game with 83 points, the second-highest single-game total in NBA history.

The players

Bam Adebayo

A 28-year-old center for the Miami Heat, Adebayo is a three-time All-Star and five-time All-Defensive Team selection who has developed into one of the most well-rounded big men in the NBA.

Erik Spoelstra

The head coach of the Miami Heat, Spoelstra has led the team to multiple NBA championships and has overseen Adebayo's development into a star player.

Ime Udoka

The head coach of the Houston Rockets, Udoka expressed surprise at Adebayo's historic scoring outburst, given the center's typical playing style.

Brian Keefe

The head coach of the Washington Wizards, Keefe acknowledged the challenges his team faced in trying to contain Adebayo and questioned some of the officiating decisions that contributed to the Heat center's record-breaking performance.

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What they’re saying

“This was just an absolutely surreal night. You know, obviously we have been blessed to have been a part of a lot of big moments in this arena. This one ... it just happened. Moments happen. And I'm grateful that we're able to be a part of it, and witness it.”

— Erik Spoelstra, Head Coach, Miami Heat (Yahoo Sports)

“First thing you think is: How? Not because of him, but because of the way he plays.”

— Ime Udoka, Head Coach, Houston Rockets (Yahoo Sports)

“I wanted him to have a moment. I didn't know when that would be. He just kept on going ... I just didn't stop until once he got Kobe's.”

— Erik Spoelstra, Head Coach, Miami Heat (Yahoo Sports)

“To have this moment is surreal. Because like I said, man, to be able to do it at home, in front of my mom, in front of my people, in front of the home fans, this is a mark in history that will forever be remembered.”

— Bam Adebayo (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

The Heat will look to build on Adebayo's historic performance as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Adebayo's achievement will likely be celebrated by the team and its fans, and could potentially earn him additional recognition and accolades.

The takeaway

Bam Adebayo's 83-point outburst is a testament to his continued development as an elite NBA player and the depth of talent on the Miami Heat roster. While not known as a high-volume scorer, Adebayo proved he can take over a game and etch his name in the history books alongside some of the greatest offensive players in league history.