Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Dončić and Miami Heat center-forward Bam Adebayo have been named the NBA Players of the Week for Week 21 of the 2025-26 season, the league announced on Monday. Both players delivered dominant performances, leading their respective teams to success and earning recognition as the top players in the Eastern and Western Conferences.
Dončić orchestrated the Lakers’ offense with remarkable efficiency, averaging 37.3 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 11.0 assists across three games. His playmaking and scoring prowess were on full display, culminating in a game-winning shot against the Denver Nuggets – a moment that underscored his ability to control the game’s tempo and deliver in clutch situations. The Slovenian star’s impact extends beyond the box score. he consistently elevates the play of those around him, making him a true focal point for the Lakers.
In the Eastern Conference, Adebayo’s week was nothing short of historic. He posted averages of 41.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game. However, it was his record-breaking 83-point performance against the Washington Wizards on March 10 that truly captivated the NBA world. Adebayo surpassed the previous record of 81 points held by Kobe Bryant, achieving the feat by shooting 20-of-43 from the field and converting an astounding 36 of 43 free throws. This milestone cemented Adebayo’s place in NBA history and highlighted his evolution as one of the league’s most versatile and dominant big men.
The 83-point game sparked conversation across the league, with many wondering if anyone could challenge the record. Dončić, when asked about Adebayo’s achievement, responded with respect and a hint of possibility. “That was highly special. 83 points… not poor. Very special, congratulations to Bam. For me… I don’t grasp. Maybe someday, maybe not,” he said, according to reports. The response, while humble, acknowledged the magnitude of Adebayo’s accomplishment while leaving the door open for a future challenge.
This marks the second Player of the Week award for Dončić this season, having previously earned the honor in Week 14 and Week 6. Adebayo, meanwhile, secures his second award of the 2025-26 season, having also been recognized in Week 13. The consistency of both players throughout the year has been a key factor in their teams’ success.
Looking back at previous winners this season, the NBA has seen a diverse range of players recognized for their outstanding contributions. Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs) and Tyler Herro (Miami Heat) were honored in Week 20, while Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves) and Jalen Duren (Detroit Pistons) took home the awards in Week 19. Earlier in the season, Stephon Castle (Connecticut Sun), Jalen Johnson (Atlanta Hawks), Dillon Brooks (Houston Rockets), Brandon Miller (Charlotte Hornets), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets), Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers), and Kawhi Leonard (Los Angeles Clippers) all received the weekly accolades.
The Lakers and Heat will look to continue their momentum as the regular season progresses. The Lakers, currently battling for playoff positioning in the Western Conference, will need Dončić to maintain his high level of play. Similarly, the Heat, aiming for a strong finish in the East, will rely on Adebayo’s continued dominance.
Next up for Dončić and the Lakers is a matchup against the Golden State Warriors on March 20th. Adebayo and the Heat will face the Boston Celtics on the same day. Both games promise to be exciting contests, showcasing two of the league’s brightest stars.
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