'BAM BAM BAM': LeBron James blown away by Bam Adebayo's record-breaking 83-point explosion

Bam Adebayo's performance marked the second-highest single-game scoring total in NBA history.

Updated on: Mar 11, 2026 8:27 AM IST

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Bam Adebayo erupted for a stunning 83 points, propelling the Miami Heat to a 150-129 blowout of the Washington Wizards on Tuesday.

Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13) reacts after becoming the NBA's second highest scorer of points in a game against the Wshington Wizards at Kaseya Center. Adebayo scored 83 points. (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

This incredible performance marks the second-highest single-game scoring total in NBA history, surpassing Kobe Bryant’s 81-point game for the Los Angeles Lakers against Toronto in 2006, and trailing only Wilt Chamberlain’s iconic 100-point game against the New York Knicks in 1962.

“I wish I could relive it twice,” Adebayo said afterward.

LeBron James reacts

LeBron James took to X to react to Adebayo’s historic night.

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NBA players and analysts in disbelief

Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks wrote, “Bro, what?"

Paul Pierce, the Hall of Fame legend from the Boston Celtics, reacted, "Wait a minute Bam got what."

The Athletic’s Mike Vorkunov added, “Only 14 teams have taken more free throws in a game this season.”

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Game summary

Bam Adebayo erupted for 83 points, leading the Miami Heat to a 150-129 victory over the Washington Wizards on Tuesday.

He scored 31 in the first quarter, 43 by halftime, and 62 through three quarters, surpassing LeBron James’ Heat record of 61 points and even Kobe Bryant’s 81-point mark. Adebayo finished 20-of-43 from the field, 7-of-22 from three, and set an NBA record with 36-of-43 free throws.

Despite missing several key players, Miami (37-29) extended their winning streak to six games. Simone Fontecchio added 18 points.

For Washington (now nine straight losses), Alex Sarr scored 28, Will Riley added 22, and Jaden Hardy contributed 17.

Up next

Wizards: Visit Orlando on Thursday.

Heat: Host Milwaukee on Thursday.

(With inputs from AP)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan leads the US Desk at Hindustan Times, where she writes, strategises coverage, and ensures quality across all beats. With eight years of experience covering US news for leading publications, she has reported extensively on politics, entertainment, and sports. Vaishnavi holds a graduate degree in English, Journalism, and Psychology, and completed her PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the Manorama School of Communication, where she was awarded the prestigious Mammen Mappillai Award for Best Outgoing Student. She began her career at the International Business Times (US Edition), covering US breaking news, politics, and entertainment. She later joined Opoyi, reporting across all beats, including US sports and trending stories. Prior to Hindustan Times, she served as World Lead at Times Now News, covering comprehensive world news and events. Vaishnavi has expertise in politics, entertainment, and breaking news, and enjoys tackling stories across a wide range of topics. Beyond the newsroom, she is an avid traveller, a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, and a pop culture enthusiast who enjoys watching latest shows and films. She also enjoys engaging in debates and discussions on Reddit.Read More

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