Lance Stephenson banks in game-winning buzzer-beater in double-OT
Hornets guard Lance Stephenson banked in a buzzer-beating game-winner to lift Charlotte to a 122-119 home victory over Atlanta on Friday.
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With the score tied at 119 and 2.7 seconds remaining, Stephenson inbounded the ball from the left sideline to Marvin Williams at the top of the key. Stephenson then ran directly at Williams to receive a hand-off, losing Kyle Korver in the process. Kent Bazemore attempted to switch defensively but Stephenson pulled up quickly from well beyond the arc, launching a high-arcing shot that banked in as the buzzer sounded. "Born Ready" celebrated the shot by climbing up on the scorer's table and pounding his chest.
The back-and-forth game nearly ended on two previous occasions. Paul Millsap had a chance to win the game in regulation, but a deep jumper rimmed off. Then, Kemba Walker missed a deep three-pointer at the end of the first extra period. The Hornets were able to set up their game-winning play after Kyle Korver was whistled for an offensive foul on the Hawks' previous possession.
• MANNIX: Anonymous scout's take on Hornets forward Stephenson
The 24-year-old Stephenson signed a three-year, $27 million contract with Charlotte this summer after spending the first four years of his career in Indiana. He finished with 17 points (on 7-for-15 shooting), 13 rebounds and four assists in 47 minutes. Al Jeffereson led the Hornets with a game-high 34 points (on 15-for-24 shooting) and nine rebounds. Gray Neal chipped in 23 points (on 6-for-11 shooting) off the bench.
Al Horford led the Hawks with a team-high 24 points (on 11-for-16 shooting) and 10 rebounds. Jeff Teague added 22 points (on 9-for-23 shooting) and 15 assists.
Charlotte improved to 3-3 with the win. Atlanta dropped to 1-3 with the loss.
