Bam Adebayo Scores 31 Points in 1st Quarter, Approaching Wilt Chamberlain's Record

The Miami Heat star's historic performance has fans buzzing as his team looks to extend its winning streak.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo scored an astonishing 31 points in the first quarter of Tuesday night's game against the Washington Wizards, putting him on pace to potentially surpass Wilt Chamberlain's legendary 100-point game. Adebayo slowed down in the fourth quarter but still finished the first half with 43 points, helping the Heat take a 76-62 lead into the break. The three-time All-Star's monster performance has Miami fans excited as the team looks to extend its winning streak to six games.

Why it matters

Adebayo's historic scoring outburst comes at a crucial time for the Heat, who have been fighting to secure a playoff spot. The team's recent struggles had led Adebayo to express frustration over routinely competing in the NBA's Play-In Tournament, but his current form has Miami in position to potentially avoid that scenario. Adebayo's performance has also drawn comparisons to Wilt Chamberlain's legendary 100-point game, one of the most revered individual achievements in NBA history.

The details

Adebayo scored 31 points in the first quarter alone, shooting 10-of-16 from the field and draining five 3-pointers. He was on pace to potentially surpass Chamberlain's 100-point record before slowing down in the fourth quarter. However, Adebayo still finished the first half with an outstanding 43 points, helping the Heat take a 76-62 lead over the Wizards.

  • Adebayo scored 31 points in the first quarter on Tuesday, March 11, 2026.
  • The Heat led the Wizards 76-62 at halftime.

The players

Bam Adebayo

A three-time NBA All-Star and the starting center for the Miami Heat.

Wilt Chamberlain

A legendary NBA player who scored 100 points in a single game, a record that has stood for over 60 years.

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What they’re saying

“KING OF THE 305!!”

— Julia Lipsett (X)

“He about to get drug tested if he continues.”

— Yo_Dee93 (X)

What’s next

The Heat will look to Adebayo to continue his dominant play as they aim to secure a playoff spot and potentially avoid the NBA's Play-In Tournament.

The takeaway

Bam Adebayo's historic scoring outburst has captivated Heat fans and the NBA community, drawing comparisons to one of the most revered individual achievements in league history. His performance comes at a crucial time for Miami as they push for a playoff berth, showcasing Adebayo's ability to elevate his game when his team needs him most.