Abbie Stockard’s love life came to light after being crowned Miss America 2025 as 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.
Aside from being Miss America, Stockard’s impressive resume includes a D1 athlete as a cheerleader for Auburn University, where she studies nursing.
Furthermore, Stockard is also dating the third-year Utah Jazz star, who she met during his time in Auburn.
Kessler began his collegiate career at the University of North Carolina before joining the Tigers in his sophomore year – a decision that proved 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 got selected by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 22nd pick. Two weeks after getting drafted, the ex-Tiger was traded to Utah, where he remained for his entire career up to this point.
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 over the summer as Kessler cheered for her in person
After being named Miss Alabama over the summer, Stockard, who shares a birthday with he boyfriend, posted about Kessler on her Instagram.
‘To the guy I get to share the same birthday with, happy birthday walk!’ Stockard captioned a series of pictures on July 26. ‘You get me like no other and make me feel like the most special girl ever! I love you!’
Kessler also posted on their birthday, writing ‘Happy birthday, Abbie! While it’s a crazy coincidence we share the same day, I wouldn’t want to share my day with anyone else.’
‘You are a truly special girl that never fails to make me smile,’ he added. ‘Thank you for being so incredibly kind and caring. Love you abb.’
On Monday, Kessler made a congratulatory post for Stockard after her crowning moment.
The post included Stockard getting crowned while wearing her Miss America sash, pictures of them from the Miss Alabama pageant and a video of Kessler watching and reacting to his girlfriend’s victory 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 has awarded you with this incredible opportunity!
‘Use your light to shine on others around you! Love you,’ he added.
On their road trip to Florida, the Jazz enjoyed back-to-back wins against the Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic.
Kessler has started in all 28 appearances for the Jazz this season and is averaging 10.4 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks.
