Bam Adebayo's Historic 83-Point Game: A New Chapter in NBA History

On March 10, 2026, Bam Adebayo of the Miami Heat achieved a remarkable feat by scoring 83 points in a game against the Washington Wizards, marking the second-highest scoring total in NBA history. The Heat triumphed over the Wizards with a final score of 150-129. Adebayo's performance not only surpassed Kobe Bryant's previous record of 81 points set in 2006 but also placed him just behind Wilt Chamberlain's legendary 100-point game from 1962.

Bam surpasses Kobe's single-game mark with 83 points vs. WizardsUSA TodayThe Sporting NewsNBC NewsNew York PostHeavyESPNTop 5 Players With Most Points in an NBA Game Ft. Bam Adebayo’s 83 PointsSports IllustratedBam Adebayo scores 83 points for Miami Heat

Adebayo's scoring breakdown was impressive: he shot 20 of 43 from the field, including 7 of 22 from three-point range, and made an astounding 36 of 43 free throws. His 36 free throws made and 43 attempts both set new NBA records for a single game. In addition to his scoring, Adebayo contributed nine rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks over 42 minutes of play.

CBS Sports

Adebayo's scoring spree began with a franchise-record 31 points in the first quarter, which also tied for the fifth-most points scored in a single quarter in NBA history. By halftime, he had already accumulated 43 points, surpassing his previous career high of 41. His scoring continued into the third quarter, where he reached 62 points, breaking LeBron James's Heat franchise record of 61 points set in 2014.

Wham, Bam, thank you, ma'am: How Heat center Adebayo scored 83 points in winHeavyHeat's Bam Adebayo scores 83 points, passes Kobe Bryant for second most all-timeCBS SportsUSA TodaySports IllustratedBam Adebayo’s 83 points passes Kobe Bryant for 2nd-most in NBA historyNBC NewsSports Illustrated

This game was particularly significant as it marked only the 15th time in NBA history that a player scored at least 70 points in a single game. Adebayo became the first player to achieve this milestone since Joel Embiid scored 70 points in 2024.

ESPNCBS SportsHeavyUSA TodaySports IllustratedNBC NewsHeat's Bam Adebayo scores 83 points, passes Kobe Bryant for second most all-timeBam Adebayo’s 83 points passes Kobe Bryant for 2nd-most in NBA history

After the game, Adebayo expressed gratitude towards his teammates and coach Erik Spoelstra for their support. He stated, “I appreciate y’all, man. Like I said, I couldn’t do it without them. Somebody had to pass me the ball. I appreciate coach for drawing up plays for me and I got it going tonight.” The Heat's strategy included intentionally fouling the Wizards late in the game to allow Adebayo more opportunities to score.

Sports Illustrated

While Adebayo's performance was celebrated, some analysts noted that the Wizards' defense was notably weak, allowing for such a high-scoring game. Critics argued that the circumstances of the game, including the Wizards' strategy to tank, may have inflated Adebayo's scoring total.

Heat’s Bam Adebayo breaks LeBron James record with incredible game vs. Wizards

Following this historic game, the Miami Heat are positioned to capitalize on Adebayo's momentum as they aim for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The team is currently in a competitive race for the sixth seed, which would allow them to avoid the play-in tournament.

USA Today

• “Bam Adebayo scored the most points since Wilt Chamberlain‘s iconic 100-point game in 1962 as the Miami Heat star went for 83 points in a 150-129 win over the Washington Wizards on Tuesday night,” — ESPN

Heavy

• “Per ESPN, Adebayo became the first player with at least 12 made field goals, 12 made free throws and five made 3-pointers in a single game since Bryant (18 FGs, 13 FTs, six 3s) did it in the second half of his 81-point game against Toronto in 2006.” — CBS Sports

CBS Sports

• “Adebayo's 83 points were the most scored in the NBA since Kobe Bryant scored 81 in a game in 2006.” — Sporting News

USA Today

Bam Adebayo's 83-point game not only etched his name in the history books but also showcased his evolution as a scorer, transforming perceptions of his capabilities on the court.

New York Post