South Charlotte Today

LaMelo Ball's strong performance in the fourth quarter was instrumental in the Charlotte Hornets' narrow 115-114 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks at Spectrum Center. Ball, who has been one of the top fourth-quarter performers this season, scored 15 points in the final 12 minutes to finish with a total of 26 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. Miles Bridges returned from a three-game absence to contribute 19 points, while Josh Green added a season-high 15 points.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, coming off a recent high-scoring game, recorded his first triple-double of the season with 22 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists. Taurean Prince led the Bucks with a team-high of 23 points.

The game remained closely contested throughout. With less than two minutes left on the clock and tied at 107-107, Ball assisted Bridges for a crucial three-pointer before scoring himself to give Charlotte a four-point lead. Despite Pat Connaughton's efforts to push Milwaukee ahead again with five consecutive points, Ball secured two free throws after being fouled by Antetokounmpo in the final seconds.

Charlotte outperformed Milwaukee in fast-break and second-chance points thanks to strategic lineups and Moussa Diabaté's career-high offensive rebounding. The Hornets effectively limited Antetokounmpo's impact through double teams and defensive strategies that forced him into difficult shots.

Milwaukee's supporting players delivered strong performances; Bobby Portis Jr., Andre Jackson Jr., and Connaughton all posted season highs alongside Prince’s contribution.

Hornets Head Coach Charles Lee praised his team's defensive efforts against Antetokounmpo: “I think it’s what we did all game in terms of showing [Antetokounmpo] bodies... He settled for a jumper, and I thought we had a great contest.”

The Hornets will face Cleveland next on Sunday as they embark on another two-game trip. The Cavaliers recently extended their perfect start to the season with their latest win against Chicago.