In a game that marked the end of a 15-game losing streak in Portland, the Charlotte Hornets secured a decisive 93-80 victory over the Trail Blazers on Sunday night. Nick Richards led the Hornets’ charge with an impressive stat line, recording 21 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks.
Miles Bridges contributed significantly with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Brandon Miller added 17 points to the winning effort. Cody Martin and Vasilije Micic each chipped in 11 points, with Martin also showcasing playmaking skills with 10 assists.
Deandre Ayton stood out for the struggling Trail Blazers, posting an impressive 26 points and 19 rebounds. However, it wasn’t enough to lift Portland out of their current slump, as they suffered their eighth consecutive defeat. Jerami Grant added 15 points, but Anfernee Simons struggled with a 4-of-21 shooting performance.
The Hornets displayed efficiency, shooting 49.3 percent from the field, including 7 of 24 from beyond the arc. In contrast, the Trail Blazers struggled with their shooting, connecting on just 34.7 percent of their attempts and a mere 9.4 percent from three-point range.
Although Portland managed to narrow the gap to 73-68 in the fourth quarter, the Hornets surged ahead with a 16-0 run, effectively sealing the victory. Miles Bridges played a pivotal role in this decisive stretch, contributing six points.
Charlotte’s dominance was evident throughout the game, leading 62-46 after three quarters and maintaining control despite a late push from Portland. Brandon Miller’s 11 first-half points and Miles Bridges’ 10-point contribution helped the Hornets secure a 47-34 lead at halftime.
The victory holds historical significance for the Hornets as it marks their first win in Portland since March 29, 2008. As the Hornets continue to build momentum with five wins in their last six games, the Trail Blazers face the challenge of overcoming their prolonged losing streak and regaining their competitive edge in the league.
