Miami Heat forward Bam Adebayo expressed an unfiltered reaction on Instagram after Haywood Highsmith switched his jersey number from 24 to 8 for the 2025-26 NBA season. This change honors the late Kobe Bryant, with Highsmith explaining the decision by referencing Bryant’s two iconic numbers: “2×4=8.”
Highsmith, who had worn No. 24 since 2021, made the switch shortly after the Heat acquired guard Norman Powell, who has worn No. 24 throughout his career. Highsmith’s gesture facilitated Powell’s preferred number, while he chose to pay tribute to Kobe Bryant by selecting No. 8.
Reason Behind the Jersey Switch and Team Adjustments
The Heat recently added Powell in a three-team trade involving Kevin Love and Kyle Anderson. Powell’s arrival was part of Miami’s effort to enhance scoring after trading Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors earlier this year. Known as a sharp shooter with a career-high average of 21.8 points per game and a 41.8% three-point shooting percentage last season, Powell’s presence provides offensive support to both Highsmith and Bam Adebayo inside the paint.
Highsmith showed goodwill toward his new teammate by surrendering No. 24 and opting for No. 8, symbolically aligning himself with Kobe Bryant’s legacy. Adebayo’s ambiguous Instagram response to this jersey number change left fans wondering whether he was teasing a teammate or expressing genuine feeling.
Fan Reactions to Haywood Highsmith’s Number Change
Social media quickly buzzed with responses to Highsmith’s decision to don No. 8 in tribute to Bryant. Fans joined Bam Adebayo in commenting on the switch, signaling the importance of the number change within the Heat community. Many viewers expressed hope and anticipation for Highsmith’s upcoming season performance, recognizing the weight of honoring an NBA legend.
However, there is also an unspoken pressure on Highsmith, as fans tend to set high expectations for players who claim to represent the legacy of the late Los Angeles Lakers star. The spotlight on Highsmith’s jersey change has put him in a position where his upcoming contributions on the court will be closely watched.
Implications for the Miami Heat’s Future
This jersey number adjustment not only reflects team dynamics but also Miami’s strategic moves to strengthen their roster in the post-Butler era. With Andrew Wiggins settling into the lineup after coming over from the Bay Area, Powell’s addition is expected to enhance the Heat’s offensive depth. Bam Adebayo, now alongside a spruced-up supporting cast, remains a critical presence aiming to lead Miami’s pursuit of success.
Highsmith’s choice to honor Kobe Bryant resonates beyond just basketball symbolism; it represents a commitment to excellence expected from all Heat players moving forward. How this will translate into on-court achievements will be a storyline to follow as the new season unfolds.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Are Bam Adebayo and De Aaron Fox friends?
A. Bam Adebayo talked about his friendship with De’Aaron Fox, saying, “He’s a close friend. We were roommates in college, and our friendship is strong. I was a groomsman at his wedding, which shows our mutual respect and bond.” As of Wednesday, Adebayo mentioned he hasn’t recently spoken to Fox.
Q. Why do people call Bam Adebayo Bam?
A. When Edrice was only a year old, his mom gave him the nickname Bam Bam. He had watched The Flintstones cartoon. In the show, Bamm-Bamm Rubble turns over a table, and young Edrice mimicked this by flipping over their coffee table. Eventually, the nickname was shortened to just Bam.
Q. Did Dwayne Wade play with Bam Adebayo?
A. Throughout his career, Dwyane Wade participated in 89 games alongside Bam Adebayo.