Brandon Miller’s Heroics Propel Shorthanded Hornets Past Pacers, Snapping Skid

The Charlotte Hornets snapped an eight-game losing streak with a gritty 113-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night.

Rookie Brandon Miller stole the spotlight, scoring 26 points, including two clutch free throws in the final seconds, to secure the win for a team plagued by injuries.

The Hornets showcased resilience despite being without three of their top four scorers—LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Tre Mann—who account for a combined 61.2 points per game. First-year coach Charles Lee leaned on his remaining roster, and they delivered, overcoming turnovers and adversity for a much-needed win.

Vasa Micic was a crucial contributor, adding 18 points and nine assists while keeping Charlotte’s offense afloat despite 24 team turnovers. Cody Martin chipped in with 14 points and six rebounds, and Nick Richards dominated the glass with 14 rebounds to go along with nine points, providing the Hornets with much-needed size and presence inside.

Indiana’s T.J. McConnell turned in a career night with 30 points and six assists, but his efforts weren’t enough to save the Pacers from their fifth loss in six games. Jarace Walker added 15 points, but Indiana continued to struggle with consistency, falling to a disappointing 10-15 on the season.

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The Hornets’ injuries forced significant adjustments, and Mark Williams, expected to be Charlotte’s starting center, was a late scratch due to a strained tendon in his left foot. Yet, the team’s perseverance under coach Lee has become a defining characteristic in the early part of the season.

For Indiana, the loss raises questions about their slow start after making the Eastern Conference Finals last season. Struggles on both ends of the floor, particularly on the boards, have exposed gaps that need addressing if the Pacers hope to return to postseason contention.

A decisive moment came in the closing seconds, with Miller stepping to the line after Indiana had cut Charlotte’s lead to two. The rookie calmly sank both free throws with 7.2 seconds left, effectively putting the game out of reach and sealing the Hornets’ victory.

Charlotte were accurate

Charlotte’s efficiency was a bright spot in an otherwise chaotic game marred by turnovers. Shooting 51% from the field, they managed to outpace Indiana despite their miscues. Meanwhile, the Pacers were crushed on the boards, being outrebounded 45-29, a disparity that played a critical role in the outcome.

Miller’s performance was more than just scoring; he also contributed six rebounds and five assists, showcasing his all-around game and providing a glimpse of his potential as a franchise cornerstone. His ability to step up in high-pressure moments is a promising sign for Charlotte moving forward.

For the Pacers, McConnell’s career night highlighted his value, but questions about the team’s defensive intensity and rebounding woes continue to linger. Despite their firepower, Indiana’s inability to close out games has been a recurring issue this season.

Looking ahead, the Hornets will face the Chicago Bulls on Friday, hoping to build on this momentum. Meanwhile, the Pacers will look to regroup as they travel to Philadelphia to take on the 76ers, seeking answers to their early-season struggles.

Sunday night’s clash was a testament to Charlotte’s resilience and Indiana’s continued quest to find their footing. For the Hornets, it was a step in the right direction, and for the Pacers, a reminder that there’s work to be done.