Updated
Updated · Bleacher Report · Jul 10
Former Heat Players Resented Bam Adebayo's $166 Million Status as Miami's Untouchable Star
Updated
Updated · Bleacher Report · Jul 10

Former Heat Players Resented Bam Adebayo's $166 Million Status as Miami's Untouchable Star

3 articles · Updated · Bleacher Report · Jul 10

Summary

  • Multiple former Miami Heat players felt resentment toward Bam Adebayo because the organization treated him as its "chosen one," Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reported.
  • That frustration centered on Adebayo never surfacing in trade rumors and then landing a three-year, $166 million extension in June 2024 while Miami protected him in roster moves.
  • Miami reinforced that status on June 22 by refusing to include Adebayo in talks for Giannis Antetokounmpo, instead sending Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakučionis and four draft assets to Milwaukee.
  • The 28-year-old has spent all 9 NBA seasons with the Heat, making 3 All-Star teams and 6 All-Defensive teams while helping Miami reach two Finals.
  • Adebayo now enters a new phase beside Antetokounmpo after averaging 20.1 points and 10.0 rebounds for a Heat team that finished 43-39.

Insights

After his reported fight with Tyler Herro, can Bam Adebayo handle the pressure of co-starring with Giannis Antetokounmpo?
Is the reported player resentment a sign that Miami's famous 'Heat Culture' is finally breaking?
Did the Heat's trade for Giannis create a title contender or a locker room on the verge of collapse?