Surpassing Kobe Bryant is certainly no joke. And after his new feat, Bam Adebayo has revealed what Kobe’s reaction could’ve been like.

The Miami Heat beat the Washington Wizards in a 150-129 upset on March 11, and the Heat Center came down with a league-high 83 points. After bypassing Bryant by 2 points, Adebayo mentioned what the icon would’ve said to this.

“To me, it's wondering what he would say”, he said in a postgame ESPN’s SportsCenter interview. “To be 83 and you pass him, in my mind it's like, ‘what would he say to me?’ I've always wanted to have a conversation with him, but he'll probably say, 'Do it again’”.  

Over 20 years ago, Bryant had a historical 81-point run against the Toronto Raptors, the 2nd highest in the league after Wilt Chamberlain’s 100 points. But now, Bam has broken that decade-long record, surpassing “somebody who I (he) loved growing up.”

So, wondering about Kobe’s reaction is only natural. But the legend with “mamba mentality” would have probably encouraged Adebayo to repeat it. And while he had to speculate what Kobe would say, a phone call came naturally.

Michael Jordan Congratulated Bam Adebayo

Now this one didn’t need any speculation. Following this staggering feat came a phone call from the 62-year-old NBA legend. In an interview with the ESPN Countdown, the 6’9 Heat Center revealed what MJ had to say to him.

“Just congratulations”, explained Adebayo. “Very short and sweet. If you know Mike, he’s not talking a lot.” However, this “short and sweet” appreciation carries a massive weight of recognition towards a player whose hallmark is mainly defense.

Being named to the All-Defensive Team 5 times and finishing in the Top 5 in Defensive Player of the Year voting for 4 consecutive seasons, Adebayo is the reason why the Heat ranks high in defense. So, him going off at offense is undeniably elusive.

Adebayo may have had to “wonder” Kobe’s reaction, but MJ’s phone call made up for that. Moving forward, what new record do you think he’s capable of setting?

Written by

Deblina Roy

Edited by

Kaamna Dwivedi