Bam Adebayo Surprises A'ja Wilson with WNBA MVP Award

Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo steps in to present his partner's historic fourth MVP trophy.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:10am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the raw emotion and energy of Bam Adebayo presenting the WNBA MVP trophy to his partner A'ja Wilson.An unexpected but heartwarming moment as Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo steps in to present his partner A'ja Wilson with her historic fourth WNBA MVP award.Today in Miami

In a heartwarming moment, Miami Heat player Bam Adebayo unexpectedly took the stage to present the 2025 WNBA MVP award to his partner, Las Vegas Aces star A'ja Wilson. Wilson made history by becoming the first player to win the MVP award four times consecutively.

Why it matters

The surprise presentation highlighted the close relationship between Adebayo and Wilson, who have been dating for several years. It also showcased Wilson's dominant 2025 season, where she led the Aces to their third WNBA title while earning both MVP and Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors.

The details

Adebayo revealed that he was not originally planned to present the MVP award, but Wilson's mother insisted he do it. The emotional ceremony saw Adebayo praise Wilson's leadership and dedication to her team. Wilson later referred to Adebayo as her 'boyfriend' during a speech.

  • On September 21, 2025, A'ja Wilson won her fourth consecutive WNBA MVP award.
  • In October 2025, A'ja Wilson thanked Bam Adebayo during a speech at the South Carolina Gamecocks Hall of Fame ceremony.

The players

Bam Adebayo

A professional basketball player for the Miami Heat in the NBA.

A'ja Wilson

A professional basketball player for the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA, and four-time WNBA MVP.

Cathy Engelbert

The Commissioner of the WNBA.

Alanna Smith

A professional basketball player for the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA, and the 2025 Co-Defensive Player of the Year.

Phoenix Mercury

A professional basketball team in the WNBA.

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What they’re saying

“She leads with love, always wanting the team to succeed.”

— Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat Player

“It was supposed to be her parents, but her mom looked at me and said, 'You're gonna do it.' And that's how I got thrown into the fire!”

— Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat Player

What’s next

Wilson has decided to sit out the upcoming Unrivaled league season to focus on rest and preparation for the 2026 WNBA season. Adebayo continues to be a key player for the Miami Heat.

The takeaway

This heartwarming story showcases the power of sports to bring people together and create memorable moments. It highlights the close relationship between Adebayo and Wilson, and Wilson's historic achievement of becoming the first player to win four consecutive WNBA MVP awards.