Brandon Miller Shines, Helps Hornets Snap Five-Game Skid
The Hornets move to 18-54 on the season.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Two nights ago, the Charlotte Hornets fell to the Cleveland Cavaliers due to a lackluster second quarter and porous interior defense. Tonight in Charlotte, the roles were reversed.
Cleveland exploded for 43 points in the opening quarter and it felt as if it was just a matter of time before they took control of the game and handed Charlotte their 55th loss of the season. Things turned quickly as the Hornets sharpened up their defense and won the battle in the paint, 58-42.
Steve Clifford received some solid production off the bench from Grant Williams who went for 16 points, seven rebounds, and five assists and Aleksej Pokusevski who recorded 10 points and seven boards. Nick Richards (11 pts, 10 reb) and Vasilije Micic (11 pts, 12 ast) each notched a double-double, but the star of the night and without question the biggest reason the Hornets came out on top was the young fella, Brandon Miller.
Best of the Night: Brandon Miller
The rookie had an incredible night, pouring in 31 points on an efficient 11/19 shooting (7/13 3FG). The seven made three-pointers are a career high and tie the franchise rookie record for a single game.
Worst of the Night: First quarter defense
From the second quarter on, the Hornets played really good basketball on both ends of the floor. I can't really critique them too much outside of the horrendous start. Steve Clifford has said it many times before - games are won/lost in the first quarter more often than people realize. Giving up 43 points in twelve minutes is far from ideal, so they're fortunate to come away with the win.
Highlight of the Night:
Next up: Hornets vs. Warriors, Friday at 7 p.m. EST.
