Bam Adebayo’s record night wasn’t necessarily a hit with some of the people in the NBA circuit. While the Miami Heat and the center himself will be proud of what he achieved, the same view wasn’t shared across the board.
Adebayo’s impressive outing in the 150-129 win over the Washington Wizards saw him break Kobe Bryant’s 81-point record for the second-highest scoring game in NBA history.
NBA World Reacts to Bam Adebayo’s 83-Point Record Night Against the Wizards
Adebayo’s scintillating performance sparked quite a reaction from fans on social media. While some praised the center’s efforts, some were visibly unhappy. “This is a disgrace to Kobe’s 81,” a comment from renowned sports MD Brian Sutterer read.
This was seconded by analyst Jason Whitlock, who wrote, “Basketball was my first love. My dad took my brother and me to Pacer games in the ABA. Basketball has been destroyed. Bam scored 83. My mind can’t handle this.”
Bruh….
As Kobe fans we would’ve loved and respected somebody TAKING Kobe’s record because it would’ve been the closest thing to seeing Kobe you FUCKIN IDIOTS!!
But instead they manufactured and forced it to happen. Somebody didn’t like the Lakers putting up that pat Riley. So…
— O’Shea Jackson Jr (@OsheaJacksonJr) March 11, 2026
Actor O’Shea Jackson Jr. went on a tirade. “As Kobe fans, we would’ve loved and respected somebody TAKING Kobe’s record because it would’ve been the closest thing to seeing Kobe you F**** IDIOTS!! But instead they manufactured and forced it to happen,” he tweeted.
“Somebody didn’t like the Lakers putting up that Pat Riley. So they tarnished one of our Kobe statues. But it’s still the highest of any guard or perimeter player ever. So it’s not about that. The league showed that at any time. A group of refs can just decide you’re getting everything called for you. And the guy you’re guarding could have 0 for the night.”
ESPN’s Frank Isola added to the thread, “Michael Jordan’s and Kobe Bryant’s career highs for free throw attempts in a regular season game are 27. Meanwhile, in Miami….give me a break. Bam currently has 41.”
Adebayo ended his evening with 83 points, nine rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks. Known primarily for his defense, the Heat superstar put on the show offensively and reached the landmark with 1:16 remaining in the fourth quarter. The center nailed a pair of free throws to reach 83 points.
The effort saw the Heat improve to 37-29 and sit sixth in the Eastern Conference. Irrespective of where the side finishes this season, Adebayo’s efforts will surely go down as one of the major highlights of the season.
