The Charlotte Hornets faced the Indiana Pacers in a crucial game, as the Pacers were seeking to end a daunting 13-game losing streak. The game marked a notable change for the Hornets, with LaMelo Ball coming off the bench for the first time since his rookie season. Instead, Collin Sexton took the starting position.
First Half Struggles
The Hornets got off to a difficult start, falling behind early. The Pacers were motivated to secure their head coach, Rick Carlisle, his milestone 1,000th career victory. In the first half, the Hornets struggled as the lineup was a mix of players who had limited time together on the court.
LaMelo Ball, playing off the bench, distinguished himself. He scored 22 points in the first half alone, helping keep the Hornets competitive. Although he played just 13 minutes, Ball was a +9 while on the floor, despite the team trailing at halftime.
Second Half Update
The Pacers maintained a double-digit lead at the start of the second half. However, the momentum shifted when Ball re-entered the game. He added another 11 points, reducing the Hornets’ deficit to only three points by the end of the third quarter.
As the fourth quarter began, the Hornets managed to reclaim the lead for the first time since being up 4-2. This comeback coincided with LaMelo Ball’s earlier impact. With 25 seconds left, the Pacers’ Pascal Siakam attempted a layup, and a steal by TJ McConnell added tension to the final moments. After a missed free throw from Ben Sheppard, the Hornets had a chance to tie the game.
Last-Minute Tensions
Collin Sexton was given an opportunity to equalize the score, but his shot missed the mark. As a result, the Hornets lost the tightly contested match, marking a disappointing end to their back-to-back games.
LaMelo Ball Shines Despite Loss
Despite the defeat, LaMelo Ball’s performance was a bright spot for the Hornets. He finished the game with 33 points, 3 rebounds, 8 assists, and 3 steals. Additionally, Ball hit 7 three-pointers and recorded a significant +19 for the night.
- Game Result: Hornets lost to Pacers
- Ball’s Stats: 33 points, 3 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals
- 3-Pointers Made: 7
- Coach Carlisle’s Milestone: 1,000th career victory sought
- Hornets’ Overall Context: End of back-to-back games
As the Hornets strive to regroup, the team will look to build on Ball’s impressive performance off the bench in their upcoming matchups.
