Bam Adebayo achieved a remarkable milestone in his career on March 10, 2026, as he scored 83 points in a game against the Washington Wizards, propelling him to second place on the list of the highest points scored in a single NBA match. This extraordinary feat puts him just behind Wilt Chamberlain, who famously scored 100 points in 1962, and surpasses Kobe Bryant’s long-standing record of 81 points set in 2006.
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During the post-game media conference, Adebayo expressed profound gratitude towards his girlfriend, A’ja Wilson, the current MVP of the Las Vegas Aces. The couple, who confirmed their relationship in February 2025, have displayed a close bond both on and off the court. Adebayo’s achievement came after Wilson had been away for a week, missing his significant milestone of reaching 10,000 career points just two days prior.
“I was so glad that she could be here for this moment,” Adebayo said, referencing Wilson’s emotional support. “The behind-the-scenes work, the conversations, everything we’ve gone through together, it’s all very motivating. I’m grateful to have her in my life.” His words were met with a touching response from Wilson, who was visibly moved during the conference, leading Adebayo to predict her emotional reaction, saying, “She’s gonna cry by the way.”
Wilson later recounted how she chose to remain out of sight during Adebayo’s record-breaking game, opting to stay in a tunnel rather than taking her seat in the stands. Her decision stemmed from a desire to avoid disrupting the player’s focus. “I see the countless hours he puts in—the early morning workouts, the self-doubt. I didn’t want to mess up any mojo,” she explained.
Humourously reflecting on the situation, Wilson admitted to darting back and forth from her perch, fully aware of the connection between their routines. “I’m like, ‘If I’m not in my seat, he’s doing pretty well,’” she said, chuckling as she recounted how she returned to the back every time Adebayo missed a free throw.
The emotional support they provide each other extends beyond game day. Wilson shared how Adebayo motivates her personally and professionally. “He says I inspire him, but he doesn’t realise how much he inspires me to be myself and show up for him. That’s my utmost goal,” she asserted, highlighting the profound impact of their relationship.
Adebayo’s performance not only etched his name deep into NBA history but also marked a day of celebration for the couple. Having surpassed Kobe Bryant’s 81-point record, he is now part of an elite company, recognised for an achievement that few in the sport ever reach.
Their relationship has grown over time, with dating rumours first circulating in 2024 after they were spotted together prior to the Summer Olympics. They maintained a low profile until Wilson made a subtle confirmation of their romance during a speech at her jersey retirement ceremony at the University of South Carolina. Shouting out to Adebayo in attendance, she remarked, “I wouldn’t be who I am today without the love, support, and sacrifices of so many people,” signifying how integral he has become in her life.
Together, Adebayo and Wilson embody a partnership that balances professional ambition with personal support, both striving for excellence on their respective courts. Adebayo’s recent scoring feat further solidified not just his standing in basketball lore, but also the silent strength of their relationship, which is built on resilience, motivation, and mutual respect.
As they continue to break barriers, both in their careers and in their relationship, the eyes of fans and analysts alike will undoubtedly be watching, eager to see what milestones they will achieve next.