Miss America Abbie Stockard steals show at fianc Walker Kesslers Lakers arrival

Abbie Stockard made sure Walker Kessler’s first official Lakers appearance felt like a Hollywood red carpet.The 2025 Miss America accompanied her longtime boyfriend-turned-fiancé to the team’s facility, stepping out in a striking white dress as Kessler began his newest NBA chapter.Stockard later shared two photos from the visit on Instagram.“Walker is officially a Laker Feeling so expectant and excited for the new chapter ahead!” she wrote.The moment came shortly after an already life-changing Fourth of July weekend for the couple.

Kessler proposed during an outing at Alabama’s Lake Martin, and Stockard accepted, turning a major basketball move into an even bigger personal milestone.Their relationship began through an unlikely bit of family matchmaking.Kessler’s mother, Andrea, noticed Stockard at an Auburn basketball game, took her photo and sent it to her son.

Kessler eventually reached out through Instagram.“Dating Miss America was not on my bingo card,” Kessler previously joked.Stockard attended Auburn, where she studied pediatric nursing and participated on the Tiger Paws Dance Team.The Birmingham, Ala., native later won the Miss America 2025 title while using her platform to advocate for children’s health and cystic fibrosis awareness.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story After announcing their engagement, Stockard described their story as one she believed had unfolded through faith and careful timing.“I get to marry Walker Kessler — my best friend!” she wrote.

“There’s no one else I’d rather spend the rest of my life with, doing life together and cheering each other on!”That support now moves into the NBA’s brightest spotlight.The Lakers acquired Kessler from Utah in a major trade before signing the 7-foot-...