Abbie Stockard, Miss America 2025, brought her own brand of star power to a Utah Jazz game this past Saturday. The former Miss Alabama and Auburn dance team member joined the Utah Jazz Dancers for a special performance during the game against the Orlando Magic. Stockard, whose talent performance for the Miss America competition was a lyrical dance, didn’t just cheer from the sidelines; she donned her signature crown and sash and took to the court, dancing alongside the professional cheer squad.
Stockard’s appearance at the game was a heartwarming show of support for her boyfriend, Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler. Kessler, who played basketball for Auburn from 2021-2022, became a viral sensation himself last month after a video of his emotional reaction to Stockard’s win swept across social media. Now, the spotlight turned to Stockard as she shared her talents with the Jazz fans.
The crowd at the game was clearly thrilled to see her take the court. Her presence added an extra layer of excitement to the evening, and it was a unique way for her to connect with the Jazz community and support Kessler. It was a special moment for both Stockard and Kessler, blending the worlds of pageantry and professional basketball.
And perhaps Stockard’s presence was a good luck charm. The Jazz, who had been struggling, snapped their losing streak with a decisive 113-99 victory over the Orlando Magic. Whether it was the Miss America magic or just a coincidence, the win made the night even more memorable for everyone involved.
Abbie Stockard’s Miss America 2025
Her victory was made even more special by the heartfelt support of her boyfriend, Utah Jazz player Walker Kessler.Stockard, a nursing student and Auburn University cheerleader, earned the coveted title, becoming the fourth Miss Alabama to do so. Kessler’s support, though long-distance, was a key part of her journey.
A great coincidence saw the Miss America taking place in Orlando at the same time the Jazz were playing the Magic there. While Stockard competed for the crown, Kessler was in Orlando with his team. A now-viral video shows Kessler’s touching reaction to Stockard’s win as he watched the pageant with Jazz coach Will Hardy. His obvious happiness and pride underscored the strength of their bond and his support for her achievements.
Stockard’s win earned her a $50,000 scholarship and the title of Miss America for the year. Her path, from Auburn cheerleader to national pageant winner, highlights her hard work and talent. With Kessler’s support, even from afar, Stockard’s success story is not just about individual accomplishment, but also about the importance of love and support within a relationship.
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