In a delightful moment that has captured the hearts of sports fans and romantics alike, Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler recently celebrated his girlfriend, Abbie Stockard, after she won the prestigious title of Miss America 2025. Kessler’s exuberant reaction during the pageant, shared widely on social media, has quickly become a viral sensation, showcasing the lighter, more human side of the NBA.
Kessler’s Impressive Season
This season, Walker Kessler has been showing everyone why he’s one of the standout players for the Utah Jazz, despite the team facing challenges with a record of just 9 wins and 25 losses. Averaging an impressive 10.4 points and 11.3 rebounds per game, he proves to be a valuable asset on the court. Notably, Kessler stands out as second in the NBA for blocks, with an average of 2.5 per game, and has an astonishing field goal percentage of 71 percent.
A Love Worth Celebrating
While Walker Kessler is busy making headlines with his basketball skills, it’s his personal life that brought him into the spotlight most recently. His girlfriend, Abbie Stockard, a 22-year-old nursing student from Auburn, has made history by winning Miss America. Kessler’s joy for Stockard was evident as he congratulated her on Instagram, showering her with affection and admiration. Their story is not just a romance; it’s a celebration of each other’s achievements. Kessler and Jazz head coach Will Hardy were seen watching the Miss America competition together in Orlando, where Kessler was visibly moved by Stockard’s performance.
The Moment Goes Viral
Walker’s reaction to Stockard being crowned has taken the internet by storm. Often, we see athletes focused on their game and training, but here was Kessler, wide-eyed and ecstatic, celebrating his girlfriend’s remarkable achievement. This candid moment struck a chord with many, reminding fans that athletes are human beings with dreams and loved ones just like everyone else. His genuine reaction underscores how proud he is of Stockard, who has worked tirelessly to accomplish her goals.
From Sports to the Stage
The connection between Kessler and Stockard is sweet and grounded in mutual respect as well as support. Their relationship was sparked initially by a meeting arranged by Kessler’s mother during an Auburn-Alabama game, facilitated by Auburn’s head coach, Bruce Pearl. When asked about dating someone with the Miss America title, Kessler humorously noted, “Dating Miss America was not on my bingo card,” a light-hearted remark showcasing not just his surprise but also his humble nature.
Looking Ahead
As Walker Kessler continues to shine on the basketball court, one can only imagine the pride he feels while cheering on Stockard in her new role as Miss America. The couple’s journey together has been filled with accomplishments, and it will be exciting to see how they support each other’s goals moving forward. Regardless of what happens with the Jazz’s season, Kessler has proven that he’s not just a star athlete but also a loving boyfriend cheering on the person he cares for the most.
| Category | Walker Kessler | Abbie Stockard |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 21 | 22 |
| Team/Profession | Utah Jazz Center | Nursing Student & Miss America |
| Average Points per Game | 10.4 | – |
| Average Rebounds per Game | 11.3 | – |
| Blocks per Game | 2.5 | – |