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via Imago

via Imago

A grand celebration in Miami-Dade County honored Florida’s Olympians for their remarkable success in sport. Among the celebrated athletes was Bam Adebayo, whose performance in Paris stood out. The Heat center delivered a standout stat line, especially against South Sudan, highlighting his ability to poke his head out among the biggest hoops legends. As Joel Embiid was not included that day, Adebayo seized the moment, leading Team USA with 18 points. However, while the fans love Bam for his on-court display, another facet of the star’s life was being showcased during the honor ceremony. Something that he’s rarely spoken about!

Adding a personal touch to the celebrations, A’ja Wilson, the Las Vegas Aces center and gold medalist in women’s basketball, publicly supported her fellow Olympians, including Bam Adebayo. Rumors of Adebayo and Wilson have fueled since the Olympics. They were spotted in Paris, exiting a store and getting into a car, which sparked speculation. During the A’ja’s gold medal celebration, their way of embracing each other, in comparison to Wilson’s simple handshake with LeBron James, made many smirk, uncontrollably.

Amidst swirling rumors about a potential romantic involvement between the two of them, not confirmed yet, Miami-Dade County’s Mayor Daniella Levine Cava acknowledged Wilson’s support sneakily, as she said, “A’ja Wilson she won gold in women’s basketball. I guess that has something to do with Bam and the Heat!” To which Wilson responded happily, seemingly agreeing with her nod.

The 6 South Florida Olympians honored with the key to Miami-Dade County along with Bam Adebayo, were Daniella Ramirez, who won silver in artistic swimming; Twanisha “Tee Tee” Terry, the gold medalist in the 4x100m relay; Sarah Newberry Moore, recognized for her sailing achievements; Ashleigh Johnson, a standout water polo goalie; and Angelica Delgado, a judoka. This acknowledgment emphasized the deep influence these athletes have had on their local community, also highlighting their exceptional accomplishments.

Bam Adebayo’s impactful Gold medal run

Throughout the Paris Olympics in 2024, Bam Adebayo showcased his remarkable skills and versatility, which became the key reason for his recognition with the key to Miami-Dade County. On July 28, in the opening game against Serbia, Adebayo contributed 4 points, 2 rebounds, and assists each in 20 minutes. His defensive presence was crucial in limiting Nikola Jokic and Serbia to 41.9% shooting from the field and 24.3% from beyond the arc.

Bam’s stellar performance came against South Sudan where he scored 18 points, 8-of-10 shooting, including 2 three-pointers. His contributions also included 7 rebounds, an assist, and a steal, accompanied by 2 blocks, demonstrating his all-around impact on both ends of the court. He was quieter in the third game against Puerto Rico, scoring 3 points and 5 rebounds, however, Adebayo’s presence was still valuable in maintaining Team USA’s undefeated record through group play.

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On August 6, during the knockout stage against Brazil, Adebayo scored 9 points and 7 rebounds, starting the second half in place of Joel Embiid. His performance was integral to the 122-87 victory, with Adebayo hitting one of three three-point attempts.

In the pivotal semifinal against Serbia, Bam Adebayo’s defensive presence was crucial despite not scoring, contributing a steal in 10 minutes. In the Gold Medal game, his impact was felt through tough defense and strategic screening, alongside 2 points and a rebound in 9 minutes. Bam Adebayo’s efforts were integral in Team USA’s 98-87 victory over France, showcasing his value in key moments despite limited minutes and it would be fair to say that he made the most of what Steve Kerr offered him, without any complaints.

Before leaving, do watch the Dual Threat Show hosted by BG12 where Bulldogs’ Asia Avinger details her experience with Kobe Bryant, her WNBA ROTY picks, and more in the video below.