Brandon Miller erupted for a career-high 38 points, including eight in overtime, to lift the Charlotte Hornets to a nail-biting 123-121 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Thursday night.
The rookie’s dazzling performance, highlighted by 8-for-12 shooting from beyond the arc, helped Charlotte fend off a determined Detroit comeback after squandering a 20-point lead in the third quarter.
LaMelo Ball also shone for Charlotte, tallying 35 points and nine assists. However, Ball fouled out just one second into overtime, leaving Miller and the rest of the Hornets to seal the deal. The duo made history as the first pair of Hornets to score 35 or more points in the same game, a testament to their offensive firepower.
Miller’s Magic in OT
Miller saved his best for last, knocking down two of his career-high eight three-pointers in the extra period. His clutch long-range shot with 32 seconds left in overtime gave the Hornets a six-point cushion, providing the decisive edge in a game full of twists and turns.
The rookie’s poise under pressure wasn’t just impressive—it was critical. With Ball sidelined, Miller embraced the role of closer, showcasing why he’s considered one of the league’s most promising young talents.
LaMelo’s Redemption and Exit
Ball’s night was a rollercoaster. After picking up three fouls in the first quarter, he spent extended time on the bench, a recurring issue this season. But he returned with a vengeance, scoring 13 of Charlotte’s 15 points during a key stretch of the third quarter to keep the Hornets afloat as Detroit surged.
Despite missing a potential game-winner at the end of regulation, Ball’s contributions kept Charlotte in the fight until his overtime exit. His blend of scoring and playmaking was on full display, setting the stage for Miller to shine in the clutch.
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Cunningham Leads Detroit’s Charge
Cade Cunningham kept the Pistons in the game, finishing with 27 points and 10 assists before leaving with a hip injury in the final minute of regulation. Cunningham’s free throws with 48 seconds left gave Detroit a brief lead, and his steady hand had the Pistons poised for an upset.
However, Cunningham’s exit was a turning point for Detroit, who struggled to find consistent scoring in his absence. Malik Beasley had a chance to win it in regulation but missed two close-range attempts, and the Pistons couldn’t match Charlotte’s execution in overtime.
Detroit’s Missed Opportunities
Jalen Duren, expected to dominate against a Hornets team missing both Mark Williams and Nick Richards, was largely ineffective. Duren finished with just five points and nine rebounds, unable to capitalize on Charlotte’s lack of interior presence.
Detroit’s 20-point comeback was fueled by aggressive defense and timely shooting, but late-game inefficiencies—particularly in overtime—ultimately cost them. Turnovers and missed opportunities in the paint left the Pistons searching for answers after their fourth straight loss.
Hornets Overcome Adversity
Despite missing key players, Charlotte showed resilience. The absence of their primary centers forced them to adapt, and they found success with Miller and Ball leading the charge. Encouraging updates on Williams (foot tendon strain) and Richards (rib fracture) suggest both are nearing returns, which will bolster Charlotte’s rotation.
A Historic Night
Miller and Ball’s combined 73 points etched their names into Hornets history, becoming the first teammates in franchise history to score 35 or more in the same game. The achievement underscores the potential of Charlotte’s young core as they continue to develop chemistry.
What’s Next?
The Pistons will aim to regroup as they head to Orlando for a Saturday night matchup against the Magic. Meanwhile, the Hornets face a tough test on the road against the Milwaukee Bucks, looking to build on their momentum from this thrilling victory.
Final Takeaway
Brandon Miller’s breakout performance not only secured a much-needed win for Charlotte but also showcased his ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure moments. With LaMelo Ball providing consistent star power, the Hornets’ dynamic duo has fans excited for what’s to come. While Detroit showed flashes of potential, they’ll need to find more consistency—and hope for good news on Cade Cunningham’s health—to turn their season around.
