Hornets Defeat Thunder 117-115 in Preseason Home Opener

The Charlotte Hornets took home a close victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder in their first preseason game at home.

Summary

The Charlotte Hornets took down a shorthanded Thunder squad 117-115 on Sunday in their first preseason game at Spectrum Center. Oklahoma City rested their entire starting lineup, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, Josh Giddey, and Lu Dort all sitting on the sidelines for this one.  

In Brandon Miller's first game in front of the Hornets faithful, the second-overall draft pick shot 50% from the floor with eight points. He made the first shot from the field for Charlotte, tipping in a Mark Williams miss just over two minutes in. 

The Hornets got off to a bit of a slow start but quickly regained the lead. They would not trail at any point after the 8:51 mark in the first quarter. Charlotte shot 52% from the floor to smother the Thunder's bench unit. 

Best of the Night:

P.J. Washington was by far the best player on the floor for the Hornets on Sunday. He finished with a team-high 31 points on 13-for-18 shooting, including 5-for-8 from three-point range. He made his impact felt defensively as well, grabbing three rebounds and recording an additional steal and block as well. 

Worst of the Night: 

Bryce McGowens left the contest with a left ankle injury in the second quarter, having to be helped off the floor by LaMelo Ball and P.J. Washington. His status going forward is uncertain. 

Bryce McGowens Helped Off Floor with Ankle Injury

Stat of the Night:

LaMelo Ball recorded three steals against the Thunder, tied for the 15th-best mark of his career. His intensity on the defensive end echoes statements made at training camp about the Hornets collectively turning up defensive pressure in the offseason. 

Highlight of the Night: 

That magic touch 🪄#LetsFly35 | @brandmillerr pic.twitter.com/m4asEL9KxO

— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) October 15, 2023