Miss America 2025 winner Abbie Stockard revealed to be dating NBA star Walker Kessler
Abbie Stockard’s love life came to light after she was crowned Miss America 2025 when fans discovered her relationship with NBA center Walker Kessler.
Stockard represented Alabama in the pageant in Orlando and won the crown over Miss Texas Annette Addo-Yobo.
In addition to being Miss America, Stockard’s impressive resume includes being a D1 athlete as a cheerleader for Auburn University, where she is studying nursing.
Additionally, Stockard is also dating the third-year Utah Jazz star, whom she met during his time at Auburn.
Kessler began his collegiate career at the University of North Carolina before joining the Tigers his sophomore year — a decision that turned out to be the right move in more ways than one.
The 23-year-old entered the NBA Draft after two years in the NCAA and was selected with the 22nd pick by the Memphis Grizzlies. Two weeks after being drafted, the ex-Tiger was traded to Utah, where he has remained for his entire career to date.
Miss America 2025 winner Abbie Stockard is dating Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler
Both attended Auburn University in Alabama, where Stockard cheers and studies nursing
Stockard was crowned Miss Alabama this summer when Kessler personally cheered her on
After being named Miss Alabama this summer, Stockard, who shares a birthday with her boyfriend, posted about Kessler on her Instagram.
“To the man I share the same birthday with, congratulations on your birthday walk!” Stockard captioned a series of photos on July 26. ‘You understand me like no other and make me feel like the most special girl ever! I love you!’
Kessler also posted on their anniversary, writing, “Happy Birthday Abbie! Although it’s a crazy coincidence that we share the same day, I wouldn’t want to share my day with anyone else.”
“You are truly a special girl who always makes me smile,” he added. ‘Thank you for being so incredibly kind and caring. I love you, Abb.”
On Monday, Kessler posted a congratulatory post for Stockard following her crowning moment.
The post included Stockard being crowned wearing her Miss America sash, photos of them from the Miss Alabama pageant and a video of Kessler watching and reacting to his girlfriend’s win while on the road with the Jazz .
‘Congratulations Abbie! I am so proud of you and everything you stand for,” Kessler wrote. “Your hard work and trust in the Lord have given you this incredible opportunity!
‘Use your light to shine on others around you! I love you,” he added.
During their road trip to Florida, the Jazz enjoyed back-to-back wins against the Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic.
Kessler has started all 28 games for the Jazz this season and is averaging 10.4 points, 11.3 rebounds and 2.5 blocks.