
Hornets Stun Heat Late Behind Ball’s Heroics to Stay Alive in Play-In
Charlotte survives a dramatic finish against Miami to advance in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament.

Charlotte survives a dramatic finish against Miami to advance in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament.

Charlotte rode a scorching shooting night and a dose of LaMelo Ball magic to overwhelm Oklahoma City 124–97, handing the reigning champions one of their most lopsided losses of the season.

Charlotte’s late-season push has transformed them into one of the NBA’s hottest teams, though a difficult schedule still stands between them and a playoff berth.

Charlotte’s recent run underscores a growing identity built on discipline, depth, and consistency.

The Phoenix Suns snapped Charlotte’s 10-game winning streak behind Devin Booker’s 30-point performance, while LaMelo Ball reached a notable statistical milestone despite the loss.

Charlotte forward Moussa Diabate publicly took responsibility for his role in a bench-clearing incident as the NBA issued multiple suspensions and the Hornets looked to regroup during a tight playoff race.