LaMelo Ball Shines with 32 Points, Hornets End 10-Game Slide by Toppling Suns 115-104

In a critical matchup, the Charlotte Hornets triumphed over the Phoenix Suns, ending their 10-game losing streak with a 115-104 victory in Charlotte on Tuesday night.

LaMelo Ball spearheaded the Hornets’ offensive efforts, accumulating 32 points and 10 rebounds. Miles Bridges contributed significantly with 21 points, while Nick Richards provided a strong bench performance with 15 points and 12 rebounds.

The Suns, led by Devin Booker’s impressive 39 points and 10 assists, struggled despite notable contributions from Kevin Durant, who added 26 points. This loss marked the Suns’ fifth in their last six games, dropping their record to 16-19.

Charlotte seized momentum in the second quarter, outscoring Phoenix 37-17, which helped them secure a 13-point lead by halftime. Ball, who had a quiet first quarter, exploded in the second half, scoring 29 points and converting four three-pointers.

The Hornets dominated the rebounding battle, finishing with a 59-42 edge over the Suns. This disparity in boards significantly impacted Phoenix’s performance, as they struggled to find scoring options outside their star players.

The Suns began the game well, but fatigue set in as they played their second consecutive night. Bradley Beal faced difficulties, scoring only 10 points on 5-of-13 shooting and missing a crucial layup before the end of the first quarter.

This victory was particularly significant for the Hornets, who fielded all five starters together for just the third time this season. The synergy among the starters showcased marked improvement, especially in their ball movement late in the second quarter.

A pivotal moment occurred when Ball, operating under pressure, passed to Brandon Miller, who confidently hit a corner three-pointer to extend the Hornets’ lead to 11 with just over a minute left in the game.

As for key takeaways, the Hornets entered the night with just one win since Thanksgiving. Looking ahead, both teams will be back on the court Thursday night; the Suns will host the Hawks, while the Hornets will face the Lakers.

In broader sports context, Phoenix is a vibrant hub for professional sports, hosting teams across the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and MLB. Major sporting events frequent the area, showcasing the city’s commitment to athletics and entertainment.