The Charlotte Hornets pulled off yet another exciting victory against the Detroit Pistons on Thursday night, winning 123-121 in overtime. Despite blowing a 20-point lead and seeing their defensive resolve tested in crunch time, the Hornets emerged victorious, thanks to Brandon Miller’s career night and a standout performance from LaMelo Ball.
Miller and Ball’s Standout Performances
- Brandon Miller: The second-year forward erupted for a career-high 38 points, hitting an impressive 15 of 26 shots, including a personal-best 8 three-pointers. He also tied his career high with 4 steals and delivered crucial plays in overtime.
- LaMelo Ball: The Hornets’ star guard scored 35 points, shooting 12 of 27 from the field, and showcased his trademark flair until fouling out at the start of overtime.
This dynamic duo became the first pair of Hornets teammates in franchise history to each score 35+ points in the same game. They are only the second such duo in the NBA this season, following Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin of the Indiana Pacers.
Pistons Highlights and Key Moments
For Detroit:
Cade Cunningham: The Pistons’ leader posted 27 points, 10 assists, and 4 rebounds but exited with a hip injury as overtime began.
Tobias Harris: Harris turned in his best performance of the season, scoring 26 points on 10 of 16 shooting, including 6 of 9 from deep.
Game-Changing Moments
Third-Quarter Surge
Charlotte went on a 26-10 run in the third quarter, building a 20-point lead at 89-69. However, Detroit’s pressure defence forced seven fourth-quarter turnovers, allowing the Pistons to storm back.
Fourth-Quarter Drama
With less than a minute left, Detroit capped a 10-0 run to take a 109-107 lead. LaMelo Ball responded with a layup to tie the game, but Detroit missed multiple opportunities to win in regulation.
Overtime Heroics
After Ball fouled out just seconds into OT, Miller stepped up, scoring a flurry of points, including a dagger three-pointer and a critical layup, to give the Hornets a decisive lead. A defensive stand, coupled with key free throws and a loose ball recovery by Taj Gibson, sealed the win.
Hornets on Fire from Deep
Charlotte’s three-point shooting was once again a game-changer.
20 of 44 (45.5%) from beyond the arc.
Miller and Ball combined for 14 threes.
Josh Green and Cody Martin added six combined three-pointers, further boosting the Hornets’ long-range attack.
Charlotte joined the 2021-22 Utah Jazz and the Boston Celtics (2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons) as one of only four teams in NBA history to make 20+ three-pointers in three consecutive games.
Turnovers and Defensive Struggles
While Charlotte showed improved ball control early (6 turnovers in the first three quarters), they committed ten turnovers in the final quarter and overtime. Detroit wasn’t much better, coughing up 19 turnovers, which led to 25 Charlotte points.
Filling in for Miles Bridges, Moussa Diabaté had a career night in his second-ever NBA start:
- 16 rebounds (7 offensive).
- three steals and strong defensive plays.
His energy and hustle were crucial in a game where every possession counted.
Postgame Reaction
Brandon Miller reflected on his incredible performance: “It’s just about taking the opportunity to be aggressive. As a competitor and teammate, you want to do everything you can to win. Honestly, I didn’t realise tonight was a career high for me. I was just out there playing basketball and trying to get the win for these amazing fans tonight.”
The Hornets head to Milwaukee for a rematch with the Bucks on Saturday, November 23, at 8 p.m. ET. Charlotte previously edged out Milwaukee, 115-114, just a week ago, breaking a five-game losing streak to the Bucks.
With their three-point shooting red-hot and Miller emerging as a reliable star, the Hornets will look to extend their winning streak against a tough conference rival.
