Hornets Revitalize NBA Scene in Charlotte
Hector Cortes, known around Spectrum Center as “Sombrero Man,” said he noticed a clear shift by March 26. The longtime fan and middle school teacher watched the Charlotte crowd out-sing visiting New Yorkers. The energy was different from years past.
On-court turnaround
The Hornets began the season 4-14. They then won more than 62% of their remaining games. The surge produced the NBA’s best offensive rating since Jan. 1 and a top-10 NET rating.
Rookie Kon Knueppel led the league in 3-pointers made. LaMelo Ball continued to develop as a leading playmaker. Brandon Miller emerged as the team’s top scorer.
Coaching and front office
Charles Lee drew early consideration for coach of the year. Jeff Peterson has been noted for his front-office work. Team leaders described steady progress on and off the court.
Playoff return and format
Charlotte will host a play-in game against the Miami Heat on Tuesday, April 14. It marks the franchise’s first postseason home game since 2016. The single-elimination format means the run could end after one contest.
If the Hornets advance, they would need a road victory against either the Philadelphia 76ers or Orlando Magic to reach the main Eastern Conference bracket.
Fan resurgence
Attendance climbed significantly this season. The Hornets set a franchise single-season sellout record with 25. They closed the regular season with 15 straight sellouts.
Charlotte rose from 22nd to 13th in league attendance. The team drew more than 100,000 additional fans compared with two years earlier.
Local voices
Kyle Bailey, host of a local radio show and the team’s pregame voice, said the city is reconnecting with its first pro team. Dell Curry, now a team ambassador and analyst, noted a renewed willingness among fans to show support.
History and ownership
The original Hornets left for New Orleans in 2002. The current franchise restored the Hornets name before the 2014-15 season. Charlotte had not hosted a postseason game since the 2016 campaign.
Majority ownership changed in 2023 when Michael Jordan sold his stake. New principal owners include Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall.
Roster outlook and stakes
Only one starter is older than 24. Every starter is under contract at least through next season. That youthful stability factors into optimism about sustained progress.
Coach Lee reminded players of how far they have come. The team reviewed early-season standings to reinforce the turnaround.
What this means for the city
Fans and analysts say the Hornets have helped revitalize Charlotte’s NBA scene. The return of large crowds and a winning playing style rekindled civic pride. Filmogaz.com will continue covering the team’s postseason journey.
