Heat's Bam Adebayo scores 83 points, second-highest total in NBA history

Miami center sets franchise records for single-game scoring and free throws made and attempted

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo scored 83 points in a 150-129 win over the Washington Wizards on Tuesday night, the second-highest single-game scoring total in NBA history. Adebayo shot 20-for-43 from the field, 7-for-22 from 3-point range, and 36-for-43 from the free-throw line, setting Heat franchise records for points in a game and free throws made and attempted. His 83-point performance trails only Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game in 1962.

Why it matters

Adebayo's historic night showcases his offensive versatility and ability to take over a game, cementing his status as one of the league's elite big men. The performance also highlights the Heat's depth issues, as they were missing three of their top four scorers due to injuries, making Adebayo's heroics all the more important.

The details

Adebayo scored 31 points in the first quarter and had 43 points by halftime, both Heat records. He broke LeBron James' franchise record for points in a game (61) and surpassed Kobe Bryant (81) for the second-highest single-game scoring total in NBA history. Adebayo also set league records for most free throws made (36) and attempted (43) in a game.

  • Adebayo scored 31 points in the first quarter.
  • Adebayo had 43 points by halftime, a Heat record.
  • Adebayo dunked with 22.2 seconds left in the third quarter, giving him 62 points and breaking LeBron James' Heat record.

The players

Bam Adebayo

A 28-year-old center for the Miami Heat who scored 83 points, the second-highest single-game total in NBA history.

Wilt Chamberlain

The NBA legend who holds the record for the highest single-game scoring total with 100 points, set in 1962.

Kobe Bryant

The former Los Angeles Lakers star who previously held the second-highest single-game scoring record with 81 points.

LeBron James

The former Heat star who previously held the franchise record for points in a game with 61.

Alex Sarr

The Washington Wizards player who led his team with 28 points in the loss.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Bam Adebayo's performance tonight was truly historic. To score 83 points and set multiple franchise and league records is an incredible feat.”

— Erik Spoelstra, Head Coach, Miami Heat (Miami Herald)

What’s next

The Heat will look to continue their winning streak when they host the Boston Celtics on Thursday night.

The takeaway

Bam Adebayo's record-breaking performance showcases his offensive dominance and the Heat's ability to overcome key injuries, cementing his status as one of the NBA's elite big men and the team's go-to scorer when needed most.