Fan Survey Results: Part 1

Are fans happy Bridges is back? How confident are fans in Mitch Kupchak and Steve Clifford?

In a tradition that started last year, every off-season I conduct a fan survey to get a pulse on the biggest questions facing the Charlotte Hornets. This year saw another strong turnout with over 500 responses, making it the largest annual Hornets fan survey I'm currently aware of. Let's dive into the results

Question 1

A resounding 78% of Hornets fans are happy Bridges is back on the team, but that still leaves just under a quarter of the fanbase (22%) who feel differently. Last off-season I asked "Do you want Miles Bridges to be back on the Hornets" and it ended in a 50/50 tie. It's clear Miles still has some "Bridges" to mend with the Hornets fanbase. 

Question 2

Confidence in Mitch Kupchak has suffered with 83% of fans scoring a 3 or less. That number stood at just 50% last season. This is likely the result of a disappointing regular season combined with a draft many fans questioned and an inactive off-season.

Question 3

Remarkably, the confidence in Head Coach Steve Clifford has not changed since last year with almost identical percentages across the board. It seems fans don't blame Steve Clifford for this team's struggles last season, they respect his coaching style and approach even when faced with adversity. 

 Question 4

Fans are clearly feeling warm and fuzzy about Charlotte's new owners. The Hornets have been in need of added investment into their basketball operations, roster and arena for several years and moving forwards it appears those are all expected to happen. However, many of the promised changes will take several years to implement, will fans be able to stay patient? 

Question 5

It's no secret that Mitch Kupchak's contract comes to an end in 2024. With new ownership in place, the chances of a change in the front office personnel are increased. I'm somewhat surprised that the "Yes" number is so high, perhaps they were swayed by the recent comments from the new owners saying that the current basketball operations staff will remain for the time being. 

Question 6

This ties into the emerging theme of the survey that fans seem more behind Clifford than Kupchak. Clifford's deal also expires next off-season, his future will likely depend on how the team performs this season.

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