NBA fans were unable to hold back their thoughts and feelings after finding out that Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo had been ranked 30th best among active players in the league on a recent list by The Ringer.
Although the league is filled with otherworldly big men such as Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren, Adebayo is viewed by many as a top-tier big in the league, one whose caliber of performance that many centers aspire to reach. As a result, it is easy to understand why fans were frustrated to hear that Adebayo was ranked 30th on this somewhat controversial list.
LeBron James and Anthony Davis Are Ranked Higher Than Bam Adebayo
When forming opinionated lists that rank stars across the league, it isn’t easy to hold them all to the same standard.
While there is no way to know for sure, it is clear that this list has not taken into consideration factors such as injuries and availability, aspects that should heavily affect where stars stand: “How is it that players who never play like Kawhi and AD are still on this list but no Tatum.”
How is it that players who never play like Kawhi and AD are still on this list but no Tatum.
— Jonathan (@elrawkador) November 26, 2025
Stars such as LeBron James and Anthony Davis are viewed as superior to Adebayo, which makes sense given their individual abilities and accomplishments. However, fans may wonder if James and Davis, who are ranked No. 18 and No. 19, respectively, deserve a position on the list at all: “bron played how many games and they have him at 18 already.”
bron played how many games and they have him at 18 already pic.twitter.com/TiU2Lx3eIj
— law (@lawsyncd) November 26, 2025
Going into Wednesday, Nov. 26 action, Adebayo has been averaged a solid 19.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists this season. He’s made 45.1% of his field-goal attempts, including 34.9% from 3-point range.
While his rebounding and defense are notable, Adebayo’s stats do not appear to be sufficient to afford him a higher position on this list: “Having Bam at 30 is criminal. Just embarrassing.”
Having Bam at 30 is criminal. Just embarrassing
— Troy Sorel (@edge3241) November 26, 2025
It is undoubtedly possible for Adebayo to use this list as a source of motivation to improve his numbers, leading the Heat through the season in the process: “Bam 30 is mad crazy lmaoo but bet say that. DPOY loading.”
Bam 30 is mad crazy lmaoo but bet say that. DPOY loading
— BasedonCash (@BasedOnCash) November 26, 2025
Be that as it may, the Heat’s offensive system does not allow for Adebayo to dominate ball usage and overstep his role beyond a certain point.
While that strategy may hinder Adebayo’s individual success, the Heat have been performing relatively well this season and are currently 12-6. If Miami can maintain its current momentum and finish the regular season on a positive note, it will be difficult to dismiss Adebayo and his abilities.
Nonetheless, the true challenge for Adebayo and the Heat lies deep in the postseason. Miami has reached the Finals twice since the 2019-20 season and fell short on both occasions to the Lakers and Nuggets.
Only time will tell if Adebayo will be able to accomplish the ultimate goal with his squad.