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MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 10: Bam Adebayo #13 of the Miami Heat celebrates with teammates after defeating the Washington Wizards at Kaseya Center on March 10, 2026 in Miami, Florida. Adebayo passed Kobe Bryant for the second most points scored in an NBA game with 83 in the 150-129 win. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
Basketball icon Michael Jordan is still considered the gold standard for the NBA and reached out to Bam Adebayo after his record-breaking night. Adebayo had a dream game by scoring 83 points to top Kobe Bryant’s 81 points for the most points scored in the modern era. Wilt Chamberlain still holds the record with 100 points, but Adebayo is now the top scorer with a game to hold video proof.
ESPN Countdown interviewed Adebayo about his legendary performance and revealed exactly what Jordan told him about the accomplishment:
“Just congratulations. Very short and sweet. If you know Mike, he’s not talking a lot.”
Jordan apparently reached out with a short phone call to offer a simple congratulations message. The elusive phone call from Jordan often comes when an active NBA player does something historic or legendary, like Adebayo did by scoring the second most points ever in a game.
Oh No He Didn't
Bam says Michael Jordan reached out to him after scoring 83
“If you know Mike he’s not talking a lot”
ESPN’s hosts were curious about what exactly Jordan says in a message like this honoring another active player. The Miami Heat center joked about how minimal Jordan is with his words, but he referenced
Why Bam Adebayo’s Game Was Truly Shocking
Adebayo is not considered a great offensive player compared to most of his peers. Most would predict Tyler Herro or Norman Powell getting hot for the Heat as the players more likely to have a legendary scoring night over Adebayo. The career high for Bam before last night’s epic performance was just 41 points as less than half of what he scored.
Miami fans were treated to arguably the most shocking performance to reach the 60+ point feat. Most players reaching that scoring total are typically the greatest scorers in the league. Names like Karl-Anthony Towns, Kemba Walker, Bradley Beal, and Tom Chambers are the least accomplished compared to the other names on that list.
Adebayo averaged fewer points and was a less prolific scorer than any other name on that list. Jordan likely went out of his way to reach out to Bam since it was a harder feat for him. Centers have a tougher chance today, especially if they aren’t lights out three-point shooters.
Michael Jordan Remains Tied With Today’s Game
Various stories have showed that Jordan enjoys being around the game via his own control today. Jordan appeared on a handful of NBC broadcasts from one interview filmed with respected broadcaster Mike Tirico breaking down the game. Fans have complained about no new interviews coming since this was all filmed before the season.
However, other stories have shown Jordan getting more involved. Longtime broadcaster Ahmad Rashad interviewed Minnesota Timberwolves superstar Anthony Edwards and referenced Jordan telling him that he loves watching Edwards play basketball today. Fans have compared Edwards to Jordan to make this news more interesting.
Jordan doesn’t share many opinions publicly, but he clearly keeps an eye on the game and has strong thoughts. Adebayo received the ultimate honor of having the greatest of all time go out of his way to call and praise him. The 83 points will live in infamy, but respect from all-time greats make it a more special memory.