Bam Adebayo Scores 83, Breaks Kobe Bryant's NBA Record

Miami Heat center sets new single-game scoring mark in win over Washington Wizards

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo scored 83 points in a 150-129 victory over the Washington Wizards on March 10, 2026, breaking Kobe Bryant's long-standing NBA record of 81 points in a single game. Adebayo's historic performance included setting new league records for free throw attempts (43) and made free throws (36) in a game.

Why it matters

Adebayo's 83-point outburst places him among the NBA's all-time great scoring performances, second only to Wilt Chamberlain's legendary 100-point game in 1962. His achievement demonstrates the evolving landscape of NBA scoring and the potential for modern players to reach extraordinary individual numbers.

The details

Adebayo shot 20-of-43 from the field, including 7-of-22 from three-point range, but his exceptional free-throw shooting - 36-of-43 - was a key factor in his record-breaking performance. The Miami Heat strategically contributed to Adebayo's scoring spree, intentionally fouling late in the fourth quarter to provide him with more scoring opportunities.

  • Adebayo reached 62 points by the end of the third quarter, a new franchise record for the Miami Heat, previously held by LeBron James with 61 points.
  • Adebayo's 83-point performance on March 10, 2026, shattered Kobe Bryant's iconic 81-point game from 2006.

The players

Bam Adebayo

The Miami Heat's center who set a new NBA single-game scoring record with 83 points.

Kobe Bryant

The former Los Angeles Lakers star whose 81-point game in 2006 was the previous NBA record that Adebayo surpassed.

Wilt Chamberlain

The NBA legend who holds the all-time single-game scoring record with 100 points in 1962.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Bam Adebayo's 83-point performance is a testament to his skill and the evolution of the modern NBA game. To surpass Kobe Bryant's iconic 81-point game is a remarkable achievement.”

— LeBron James (Twitter)

“Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game will always be the gold standard, but Bam Adebayo's feat shows the incredible scoring potential of today's players. It's a historic night for the NBA.”

— Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, NBA Legend (ESPN)

What’s next

The Miami Heat will look to build on Bam Adebayo's historic performance as they continue their playoff push. Adebayo's scoring outburst has sparked conversations about the evolution of NBA scoring and whether any current players can challenge Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point record.

The takeaway

Bam Adebayo's 83-point game underscores the remarkable scoring ability of modern NBA players and the potential for individual records to be broken. His achievement demonstrates the versatility and impact that elite big men can have in the league today.