Hornets Complete Comeback to Defeat Wizards

Coming off a massive win over the Boston Celtics on Monday, the Charlotte Hornets looked to keep their momentum rolling against the struggling Wizards on Wednesday night. 

Head Coach Steve Clifford emphasized the importance of bringing the same intensity and high-level play against one of the worst teams in the East record-wise as they did against the conference-leading Celtics. 

That intensity was lacking for much of the first three quarters of the game as the Hornets found themselves down by as much as 19 points to the 2-11 Wizards. But a furious rally spearheaded by LaMelo Ball began in the latter stages of the third quarter. 

Charlotte would outscore Washington 39 to 23 in the final frame, though the two teams exchanged blows and traded the lead for the entire fourth quarter. After some crucial free throws from Miles Bridges and LaMelo Ball, the Hornets emerged with their second straight win. 

Best of the night: The Hornets showed their ability to not lose focus despite the high of just having beaten one of the elite teams in the league. In the win, Miles Bridges had his best game since returning with 33 points on 11-for-19 shooting. 

Worst of the night: Though Charlotte ultimately emerged with the victory, they still struggled mightily with an underperforming team for the majority of the game. They will need to continue improving defensively in order to take care of business against subpar competition. 

Stat of the night: LaMelo Ball recorded his fourth straight 30-point game to help lead the Hornets to victory. He finished with 34 points and 13 assists. 

Highlight of the night: 

This alley-oop from LaMelo Ball to Mark Williams ignited the crowd as the Hornets trimmed the Wizards' lead down to just two possessions.