Hornets' LaMelo Ball Assessed Flagrant Foul, Fined $35K for Play That Injured Heat's Bam Adebayo On Wednesday, the NBA announced that Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball had been retroactively assessed a flagrant foul penalty 2 and fined $35,000 for a play during the Hornets’ Play-In Tournament game against the Miami Heat on Tuesday. The incident occurred in the second quarter when Ball was blocked, fell to the floor, and then yanked Bam Adebayo’s leg in frustration, causing the Heat center to land awkwardly and exit the game with a back injury. Adebayo did not return to the contest. NBA executive vice president James Jones described the play as “unnecessary and reckless contact” that “created significant injury risk.” The league’s decision to upgrade the foul to a flagrant 2 effectively acknowledged that the incident was ejection-worthy, aligning with Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra’s earlier criticism. Spoelstra called the play “stupid” and stated that Ball “should’ve been thrown out of the game” during a postgame interview. Ball’s actions came after Charlotte secured a 127-126 overtime victory, with the guard finishing with a game-high 30 points (on 12-of-31 shooting) and a game-high 10 assists in 40 minutes. Despite the controversy, Ball addressed the incident in a postgame interview, apologizing for his actions and stating he “didn’t really know where I was” due to being hit in the head. He also mentioned he would check on Adebayo’s condition. In addition to the $35,000 fine for the flagrant foul, Ball was also fined $25,000 for using profanity during his walkoff interview. The NBA’s disciplinary measures highlight the league’s stance on both on-court conduct and off-court behavior, particularly in high-stakes games.#nba #miami_heat #bam_adebayo #charlotte_hornets #la_melo_ball
NBA Play-In Tournament Results: Trail Blazers and Hornets Secure Playoff Berths The 2026 NBA Play-In Tournament began on Tuesday, April 14, with the first two games of the postseason. The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Miami Heat 127-126 in overtime, while the Portland Trail Blazers topped the Phoenix Suns 114-110 to secure playoff berths. The results set the stage for the first round of the playoffs, with additional matchups scheduled for Wednesday, April 15. The Hornets’ victory over the Heat was a dramatic contest between the No. 9 and No. 10 seeds in the Eastern Conference. The game went into overtime after Coby White hit a game-winning 3-pointer in the final 15 seconds of regulation. The Heat, missing key player Bam Adebayo for over half the game due to a lower back injury, struggled to contain Charlotte’s offensive efforts. Adebayo exited in the second quarter and did not return, significantly impacting Miami’s ability to match the Hornets’ energy. The Hornets’ late-game execution secured their place in the playoffs. In the Western Conference, the No. 8 seeded Portland Trail Blazers upset the No. 7 seeded Phoenix Suns with a 114-110 win. Portland closed the game with a 17-5 run in the final minutes, converting all six of their final field goal attempts. The Suns, despite their efforts, could not match the Blazers’ intensity, leaving them with a loss and a shortened playoff run. The Blazers’ victory earned them the No. 7 playoff seed in the Western Conference. The play-in tournament continued on Wednesday, April 15, with two more games. The Philadelphia 76ers hosted the Orlando Magic in a matchup that would determine the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference.#miami_heat #charlotte_hornets #phoenix_suns #portland_trail_blazers #nba_play_in_tournament
Dirk Nowitzki Breaks Down NBA's 'Neck and Neck' Rookie of the Year Race The Rookie of the Year race in the NBA has reached a critical juncture, with Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg and Charlotte Hornets guard Kon Knueppel locked in a fierce battle for the honor. Both players have delivered standout performances this season, but time is running out for each to solidify their case. Former Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki, now a studio analyst for Amazon Prime, has weighed in on the competition, acknowledging the difficulty of choosing between the two. Flagg, a 20-year-old rookie, has emerged as a standout for the Mavericks, averaging 20.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game. His historic 49-point performance on January 29 against the Hornets—where he broke the record for the highest scoring game by a teenager in NBA history—highlighted his two-way versatility. Despite missing eight games in February due to a midfoot sprain, Flagg has remained a key contributor, showcasing his ability to impact both ends of the floor with his athleticism, playmaking, and defensive presence. Knueppel, meanwhile, has made a name for himself as one of the league’s premier shooters. The 21-year-old guard averages 18.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, with a career-high 34-point performance against Flagg on the same night as the Mavericks forward’s 49-point game. Knueppel’s efficiency from beyond the arc—shooting 8 of 10 from three-point range in that matchup—has solidified his reputation as a clutch shooter. With 75 games played compared to Flagg’s 64, Knueppel has also benefited from more consistent minutes, allowing him to build a stronger case for the award.#charlotte_hornets #dallas_mavericks #cooper_flagg #kon_knueppel #dirk_nowitzki
Spurs Vindicated for Questionable Dylan Harper Move That Looks Genius Now The San Antonio Spurs’ decision to select Dylan Harper with the second overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft has been reevaluated in light of Kon Knueppel’s historic rookie season. While Harper’s selection initially faced scrutiny, the Spurs’ gamble is now being viewed as a masterstroke. In a hypothetical redraft scenario, Knueppel, who has emerged as a standout performer for the Charlotte Hornets, might have been chosen instead. However, analysts and fans alike are beginning to question whether the Spurs made the right call, given Knueppel’s meteoric rise and the potential impact he could have had on the team. The debate centers on the Spurs’ draft strategy and the long-term implications of their choice. Harper, a versatile guard with elite scoring ability, has become a cornerstone of the team’s future plans. His selection was met with skepticism, as the Spurs already had De'Aaron Fox and Castle on the roster, both of whom are established stars. Critics argued that adding another guard of Harper’s caliber would create redundancy, but supporters counter that Harper’s unique skill set and high ceiling justify the risk. Knueppel’s performance this season has been nothing short of extraordinary. The Hornets’ forward, who was initially projected as a mid-first-round pick, has exceeded expectations with his elite shooting range and playmaking ability. His rookie season has been described as a “historic” breakthrough, with averages that rival those of top-tier players. In a hypothetical redraft, many analysts suggest that the Spurs might have prioritized Knueppel, given his immediate impact and potential to complement Wembanyama’s dominance in the paint. However, the Spurs’ decision to draft Harper has been vindicated by his development.#san_antonio_spurs #charlotte_hornets #dylan_harper #kon_knueppel #wembanyama
Phoenix Suns at Charlotte Hornets Odds, Picks, and Predictions The Phoenix Suns (42-34) will face the Charlotte Hornets (40-36) on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The game is set for a 7 p.m. ET tip-off, with both teams entering the matchup with contrasting records and playoff implications. The Suns, as the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference, aim to avoid the Play-In Tournament, while the Hornets, holding the tiebreaker over Orlando for the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference, seek to secure a higher postseason position. The season series between the two teams is split 1-0 in favor of the Suns, who defeated the Hornets 111-99 on March 8. That game saw the Suns cover as 5.5-point home underdogs, with the Under (217.5) cashing. However, the Suns have struggled in their last 10 contests, posting a 3-7 record during that span. Their most recent loss came on Tuesday, April 1, when they fell 115-111 to the Orlando Magic as 2-point road underdogs, with the Over (224.5) hitting. Despite these recent setbacks, the Suns remain in the playoff race, while the Hornets have shown resilience in their last 10 games, going 7-3 and winning six of their last eight contests. The Hornets’ recent performance includes a dominant 117-86 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday, where they covered as 18.5-point road favorites and the Under (219.5) cashed. Charlotte’s strong play has positioned them as a contender for the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference, currently tied with the Toronto Raptors and Philadelphia 76ers. The Hornets’ success has been bolstered by their defensive efficiency, ranking 14th in adjusted defensive rating (114.0), and their ability to slow down opponents.#charlotte_hornets #phoenix_suns #eastern_confederation #western_confederation #spectrum_center
Charlotte Hornets on the Brink of a Three-Year Postseason Return The Charlotte Hornets have endured a prolonged drought without a postseason appearance, a situation that has tested the patience of fans and the organization alike. After a disastrous 4-14 start to the 2024-25 season, many feared another lost year in the Queen City. However, the Hornets have staged one of the most remarkable mid-season turnarounds in NBA history, transforming from a struggling team into a competitive force. This resurgence has reignited hope for the franchise and its supporters, who have long awaited a return to relevance. The Hornets’ turnaround has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since their rocky start, the team has compiled a 36-22 record, pushing them to 40-36 with six games remaining in the regular season. A victory in their upcoming matchup against the Phoenix Suns would secure a winning record for the first time since the 2021-22 season. This achievement would mark the first non-losing season in Charlotte since that campaign, a milestone that carries significant historical weight. The 2021-22 season remains a high point for the Hornets, as they finished with a 43-39 record and reached the first play-in game against the Atlanta Hawks. That year, LaMelo Ball played a career-high 75 games and earned his lone All-Star selection. Key contributors like Terry Rozier III, Miles Bridges, Gordon Hayward, Montrezl Harrell, and PJ Washington Jr. all averaged double-digit points, forming a core that gave the team a fighting chance. However, the Hornets’ playoff run ended in heartbreak, as they fell to Atlanta in the play-in game. In the years following that season, the Hornets struggled to maintain their momentum. From 2022-23 to 2023-24, the team posted losing records of 27-55, 21-61, and 19-63, respectively.#miles_bridges #charlotte_hornets #la_melo_ball #gordon_hayward #terry_rozier_iii
Knicks Seek To Extend Winning Streak Against Hot Hornets In March 26 Matchup The New York Knicks aim to continue their winning streak as they travel to Charlotte to face the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday, March 26, 2026. The game, set for 7 p.m. ET at Spectrum Center, marks the second meeting between the teams this season, with the Knicks holding a 2-0 advantage in the series. The teams last played on December 3, 2025, when New York defeated Charlotte 119-104 at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks, currently sitting at 48-25, have won seven consecutive games, including a 121-116 victory over the Pelicans on Tuesday. The Hornets, with a 38-34 record, are riding a four-game winning streak and have gone 7-3 in their last 10 contests. The Hornets’ offense has been a key factor in their recent success, ranking fourth in the league in offensive rating while maintaining a solid 12th-ranked defensive rating. They average 116.4 points per game and allow 111.8, giving them the sixth-best net rating in the league. LaMelo Ball, the team’s primary playmaker, leads the way with 19.7 points and 7.1 assists per game, while Brandon Miller contributes 20.3 points and 39% shooting from beyond the arc. Miles Bridges, a versatile forward, averages 17.2 points and 5.9 rebounds, and rookie Kon Knueppel, likely to start despite a back injury, adds shooting depth. The Hornets’ expected starting lineup includes Ball, Miller, Knueppel, Bridges, and Moussa Diabaté, who averages 8.2 points and 8.8 rebounds. The Knicks, however, face challenges on the injury front. Miles McBride and Landry Shamet are listed as out due to ankle and knee injuries, respectively. The Hornets also have Tidjane Salaun out with a calf injury, while Pat Connaughton’s status is questionable due to illness.#new_york_knicks #miles_bridges #charlotte_hornets #la_melo_ball #spectrum_center
Knicks vs. Hornets Prediction, Odds, Spread, and Game Time for Thursday, March 26 The New York Knicks and Charlotte Hornets are set to face off in a potential playoff preview on Thursday, March 26, as part of the 2026 NBA season. The matchup, scheduled for 7 p.m. ET at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., carries significant weight in the Eastern Conference race. The Knicks, currently sitting at 48-25, enter the game on a seven-game winning streak—the longest active in the conference. Their recent victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, a 121-116 win, highlights their strong form. Meanwhile, the Hornets, with a 38-34 record, have been on a four-game win streak themselves, including a dominant 44-point win against the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday. The series has historical significance, as the Knicks have won both previous matchups this season by more than 15 points. However, the Hornets are favored in the latest odds, with Charlotte listed as a 1.5-point favorite at DraftKings Sportsbook. The over/under for total points scored is set at 223.5, reflecting the high-scoring potential of both teams. SportsLine’s Projection Model, which has a track record of success in NBA betting, has simulated the game 10,000 times and predicts the total points will exceed the 223.5 line. This aligns with recent trends, as the Knicks have surpassed the total in three of their last four games, and the Hornets have seen three of their last five home games go over. Both teams boast top-four offensive ratings in the league, with the Knicks’ strong defense and the Hornets’ depth in scoring posing challenges. The Knicks’ roster includes their top two scorers, projected to each score over 20 points, while the Hornets’ depth could provide a balanced attack with multiple players contributing 8+ points.#new_york_knicks #charlotte_hornets #draftkings_sportsbook #sportsline_projection_model #spectrum_center
Braylon Mullins NBA Mock Draft Projection: Where UConn Star Is Expected to Land March Madness is in full swing, and the nation’s top college athletes are seizing the opportunity to solidify their positions in the upcoming 2026 NBA draft class. Scheduled for late June, the draft will determine where prospects like UConn’s Braylon Mullins are likely to be selected. In the latest mock draft from USA TODAY, Mullins is projected to be chosen in the first round, with his expected pick falling at No. 20 overall to the Charlotte Hornets. The projection is based on Tankathon’s lottery predictions, which outline the draft order for teams with the highest chances of securing top selections. Mullins, a five-star recruit and former McDonald’s All-American, has been a standout performer for the Huskies despite missing the early part of the season due to an ankle injury. His return has been instrumental in UConn’s success, and his skills have drawn significant attention from NBA scouts. Kalbrosky’s analysis highlights Mullins’ appeal as a versatile off-ball threat, a trait that makes him an immediate asset in the NBA. His ability to create space for teammates and his shooting accuracy have been key factors in his rise. Since moving into the starting lineup, Mullins has demonstrated his shooting prowess, hitting 37.1 percent of his three-point attempts. This efficiency, combined with his defensive instincts and playmaking ability, positions him as a high-value prospect. As a Big East All-Freshman selection, Mullins has already made a name for himself in college basketball. His performance this season has reinforced his status as a top-tier talent, and the NBA community is closely watching his development.#uconn #charlotte_hornets #tankathon #braylon_mullins #big_east_all_freshman
Braylon Mullins NBA Mock Draft Projection: Where UConn Star Is Expected to Land As March Madness continues, college basketball stars are positioning themselves for potential NBA careers, with the 2026 draft set for late June. In the latest mock draft from USA TODAY, UConn guard Braylon Mullins is projected to be selected in the first round, with his expected pick falling at No. 20 overall to the Charlotte Hornets. The projection is based on Tankathon’s lottery analysis, which outlines the likely draft order for the upcoming class. Mullins, a five-star recruit and former McDonald’s All-American, faced early-season challenges after missing the start of the season due to an ankle injury. However, he has since returned to action for the Huskies and demonstrated his value as a versatile player. His ability to operate as an off-ball threat makes him an attractive prospect for NBA teams seeking a player who can contribute immediately. The Big East All-Freshman wing has shown significant improvement, particularly in his role as a starting guard. Since moving into the starting lineup, Mullins has maintained a 37.1% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, highlighting his potential as a three-point shooter. The Hornets’ projected draft picks for 2026 include selections at No. 13, No. 20 (via Phoenix), and No. 42 (via Golden State). These picks reflect the team’s current lottery position and their potential trade assets. Mullins’ inclusion in the first-round projection underscores his status as a top-tier prospect, despite his injury setback. His combination of shooting ability, playmaking skills, and defensive versatility positions him as a valuable asset for any NBA team looking to bolster their roster. Mullins’ statistical performance as of March 15 further supports his draft stock. He averages 3.5 rebounds per game, 1.#big_east #uconn #charlotte_hornets #tankathon #braylon_mullins
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly in disagreement over whether the star forward should play in the team’s remaining 14 regular-season games. Antetokounmpo, who has already missed 32 contests this season due to injuries, wants to continue competing as the Bucks struggle toward the end of the schedule. However, the team is pushing for him to sit out the remainder of the season, according to The Athletic. The Bucks, currently at 28-40 heading into Wednesday’s games, are 6.5 games behind the Charlotte Hornets for the final play-in tournament spot. Antetokounmpo, 31, has been plagued by recurring injuries, including calf, groin, ankle, and knee issues. His latest setback occurred after a dunk against the Indiana Pacers, where he landed awkwardly and was diagnosed with a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise. He is expected to miss several more days before being reevaluated. Despite his injury history, Antetokounmpo has performed at an MVP level when healthy. In 36 games this season, he averages 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. However, his repeated setbacks, combined with the Bucks’ fading playoff hopes, have created a difficult situation for the team. Sitting out games could benefit the Bucks by improving their chances of securing a better lottery pick in the draft. The Athletic contacted the Bucks for comment, with a team source stating that Antetokounmpo is still injured and not cleared to play. The alleged rift between the player and the team comes a month after the Bucks decided to retain Antetokounmpo at the trade deadline, despite months of speculation about a potential trade. The decision followed the Bucks’ first-round playoff exit last season and concerns about their long-term prospects.#milwaukee_bucks #nba #charlotte_hornets #giannis_antetokounmpo #the_athletic
Miami Heat Defeat Charlotte Hornets, End 6-Game Winning Streak The Miami Heat secured a 128-120 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night, ending the Hornets’ six-game winning streak. Tyler Herro was the standout performer for Miami, scoring 33 points, grabbing nine rebounds, and dishing out nine assists. His clutch 3-point shot with 7:06 remaining in the game broke a 108-all tie and sparked a 9-0 run that shifted momentum in the Heat’s favor. Herro’s efficiency from beyond the arc was key, as he made 8 of 10 three-point attempts. Bam Adebayo contributed 24 points and 12 rebounds, while Jaime Jaquez Jr. added 21 points off the bench. The Heat shot 18 of 38 from three-point range (47%) in the game. For the Hornets, Kon Knueppel led the way with 27 points, including 6 of 10 three-pointers. Brandon Miller chipped in 22 points and 13 rebounds, and LaMelo Ball scored 21 points despite shooting 7 of 22 from the field. The Hornets’ six-game winning streak had been marked by dominant performances, with all previous victories decided by 15 or more points. This loss, however, ended their streak and dropped their record to 32-32, leaving them at .500 in the league. Charlotte’s struggles to maintain their winning ways were evident as they fell behind early and couldn’t close the gap despite Knueppel’s efforts to rally the team. The game also highlighted the contrast between the two teams’ recent performances. In their first matchup in four months, the Hornets had struggled to contain the Heat, who scored a franchise-record 53 points in the first quarter of that November game. This time, the Hornets attempted to push back but couldn’t overcome Miami’s balanced attack. The Hornets’ next challenge will be a road trip starting with a game against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday.#miami_heat #bam_adebayo #charlotte_hornets #tyler_herro #jaime_jaquez_jr
Phoenix Suns Defeat Charlotte Hornets 111-99, Ending Road Winning Streak The Phoenix Suns extended their winning streak to four games with a 111-99 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday, ending the Hornets’ 10-game road winning streak. Devin Booker led the way for Phoenix with 30 points and 10 assists, despite shooting just 1 for 6 from beyond the arc. Booker made all 15 of his free throws, ensuring his team’s lead remained intact throughout the game. Collin Gillespie and Jalen Green each contributed 24 points for the Suns, who improved to 16-12 on the season. Rasheer Fleming added 16 off the bench, including four 3-pointers, while the Suns’ depth proved crucial in securing the win. Phoenix’s bench scored 42 points, compared to Charlotte’s 44, but the Suns’ stronger defense in the second half allowed them to pull away. Charlotte’s LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with 22 points, but his team’s road winning streak came to an end. The Hornets’ 10-game road win streak was the longest in NBA history since the 2019-20 Lakers’ 11-game stretch. Charlotte’s loss ended a 16-5 record in their last 21 games since a poor 4-14 start to the season. Miles Bridges, Kon Knueppel, and Brandon Miller all scored in double digits in the first half, with Knueppel leading the NBA in 3-pointers despite going 2 for 8 from deep. The Suns, playing their final home game before a six-game road trip, maintained their strong performance. Phoenix’s victory came without starters Dillon Brooks and Mark Williams, both sidelined by injuries, and without Grayson Allen, who sat out with a sore right knee. The Suns led 60-58 at halftime, with Green scoring 20 points and Booker adding 14.#charlotte_hornets #phoenix_suns #devin_booker #collin_gillespie #jalen_green
Rasheer Fleming Shines with Career-High Performance Against Hornets Rasheer Fleming delivered a standout performance in the Phoenix Suns’ 111-99 victory over the Charlotte Hornets, scoring a career-high 16 points in just 23 minutes off the bench. The rookie forward’s contributions were crucial in helping the Suns maintain their lead against the road-faring Hornets, who had previously won 10 consecutive away games. Fleming’s ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc played a significant role in the win, as he made two of his career-best four three-pointers in the third quarter. Fleming’s efforts came as a counterpoint to fellow Suns rookie Khaman Maluach, who also had a strong game but did not dominate the spotlight. The 6-foot-9 forward’s shooting accuracy has improved notably, with a 55.6% clip (8 for 15) this month. His three-point shooting has been a focus area since his time in the G League, and the results are now showing. In February, Fleming shot 7 for 17 from long range, but his efficiency has increased significantly in recent weeks. The Suns’ victory was bolstered by a balanced offensive attack, with three players scoring over 20 points. Devin Booker led the way with 30 points, including a perfect 15-of-15 performance from the free-throw line. Jalen Green added 24 points, shooting 8 of 19, while Collin Gillespie contributed 24 points and five three-pointers. Fleming’s 16 points came on 6-of-8 shooting, complemented by two rebounds, both of which came off the offensive glass. Coach Devin Booker praised Fleming’s performance after the game, highlighting the rookie’s impact on the team’s success. Fleming’s ability to step up in key moments, particularly in the third quarter, was a turning point for the Suns.#charlotte_hornets #phoenix_suns #devin_booker #rasheer_fleming #khaman_maluach
Charlotte Hornets vs Phoenix Suns injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (March 8, 2026) The Charlotte Hornets and Phoenix Suns are set to face off on March 8, 2026, in a late-season matchup scheduled for 10:00 ET. Both teams are vying for playoff positioning as the NBA regular season approaches its final stretch. Charlotte, fighting to secure a spot in the Eastern Conference play-in picture, faces a challenge with limited depth due to injuries. Phoenix, meanwhile, remains in a tight Western Conference race but also grapples with multiple key absences. The availability of players and the effectiveness of their rotations could heavily influence the outcome of the game. For the Hornets, the injury report shows minimal impact on their active roster, with only one player listed as out. Tidjane Salaun is sidelined with a left calf strain, while several younger players are with the G League. This allows LaMelo Ball to remain in the lineup as the team’s primary playmaker. The Hornets’ roster includes Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller as key scorers, with Collin Sexton, acquired in a trade with Utah, adding depth at the guard position. The frontcourt features Mason Plumlee and Moussa Diabate, though Mark Williams and Nick Richards were traded to Phoenix earlier in the season. The Suns, however, face a more significant challenge with multiple injuries affecting their rotation. Dillon Brooks is out with a left hand fracture, Jordan Goodwin is sidelined due to a left calf strain, and Mark Williams is unavailable with a left foot injury. Grayson Allen is listed as probable with a right knee issue, but the team will rely heavily on Devin Booker, who remains their top scoring threat.#charlotte_hornets #phoenix_suns #la_melo_ball #devin_booker #miles_bridges
Michael Jordan's NASCAR Ownership Marks New Chapter in Sports Legacy Michael Jordan, the legendary basketball icon, has found new success beyond the court as an owner in the NASCAR world. His 23XI Racing team, which he co-owns, has made headlines after its driver, Tyler Reddick, secured his third consecutive victory in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Jordan’s venture into stock car racing, which has gained momentum since he stepped away from basketball ownership. Jordan’s basketball career remains a defining chapter in sports history. He led the University of North Carolina to a National Championship and later dominated the NBA, winning six championships with the Chicago Bulls and the Miami Heat. His 6-for-6 record in NBA Finals appearances, including two three-peat streaks (1991–1993 and 1996–1998), solidified his status as one of the greatest players of all time. However, his post-basketball career in ownership has been a different story. Jordan’s ownership of the Charlotte Hornets faced challenges, culminating in his decision to sell the team in 2023. Interestingly, the Hornets have since enjoyed their best season since the 2016 playoff run, raising questions about the impact of his departure. Despite this, Jordan’s foray into NASCAR has shown promise. Reddick’s recent dominance, including his third straight win, highlights the potential of Jordan’s team. In a recent interview with ESPN, Jordan reflected on his role as an owner, stating, “I just put up the money. Denny’s (Hamlin) done an incredible job building this team.” His comments underscore the collaborative nature of his NASCAR venture, where strategic leadership and talent development have been key.#michael_jordan #tyler_reddick #nascar_cup_series #23xi_racing #charlotte_hornets
Michael Jordan Makes History Sunday in Post-Basketball Career Michael Jordan’s post-basketball career has taken an unexpected turn as he continues to make headlines in a different sport. On Sunday, his NASCAR team, 23XI Racing, celebrated a significant milestone when driver Tyler Reddick secured his third consecutive victory in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series. This achievement marks the first time in the series’ history that a driver has won three races in a row to start a season, a feat that has drawn comparisons to Jordan’s legendary three-peat in the NBA. Jordan, who retired from professional basketball in 2003, has since ventured into ownership, first with the Charlotte Hornets and later with his NASCAR team. His ownership of the Hornets faced challenges, as the team struggled financially before he sold it in 2023. However, his current venture in motorsports has seen more success. Reddick’s dominance on the track has positioned Jordan’s team as a top contender, with the former NBA star crediting his driver’s efforts. “I just put up the money,” Jordan said in an interview with ESPN, acknowledging Reddick’s role in building the team’s success. Jordan’s legacy in basketball remains unparalleled, with his record of six NBA Finals appearances and five championships still unmatched. His ability to dominate in the postseason has fueled debates about his status as the greatest of all time, even as comparisons to LeBron James persist. While James is often praised for his versatility and longevity, Jordan’s scoring prowess and clutch performances in high-stakes games continue to set him apart. Despite his success in NASCAR, questions remain about whether Jordan will return to basketball ownership. His experience with the Hornets suggests he may not, but his influence on the sport remains evident.#michael_jordan #tyler_reddick #nascar_cup_series #23xi_racing #charlotte_hornets
Dallas Mavericks Waiving Tyus Jones The Dallas Mavericks are set to waive veteran point guard Tyus Jones, marking the end of a brief and underwhelming stint with the team. According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, the move was confirmed late Friday, with the Mavericks aiming to clear roster space for potential signings, including converting Ryan Nembhard to a standard contract. Since the waiver occurred before the March 1st playoff eligibility deadline, Jones could be signed by another team and still participate in the postseason. Jones joined the Mavericks in a trade deadline deal from the Charlotte Hornets, a move that saw Dallas send Malaki Branham to Charlotte. Branham was acquired from the Washington Wizards in the Anthony Davis trade. The Mavericks hoped Jones’ playmaking ability would provide a spark, but his impact was minimal. In eight games with Dallas, he started twice, averaging just 3.1 points and 2.6 assists in 15 minutes. His struggles were evident, as the Mavericks had previously expressed interest in him for years but found his size—6’1”—and inconsistent shooting to be liabilities. This marked his third team of the season. A 29-year-old 11th-year NBA veteran, Jones is known for his ball-handling and ability to set up teammates. Over his career, he has averaged 7.3 points, 4.3 assists, and 0.8 turnovers in 20.7 minutes per game across 738 regular-season appearances for teams including Minnesota, Memphis, Washington, Phoenix, Orlando, and Dallas. He signed a one-year/$7 million deal with the Orlando Magic before this season but faced challenges aligning with the team’s timeline. With the Mavericks also needing cap flexibility, his unrestricted free agency this offseason makes further investment in older players impractical.#charlotte_hornets #dallas_mavericks #tyus_jones #ryan_nembhard #marc_stein
