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Hornets Sting Nets in Season Opener, 136-117

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) – The Charlotte Hornets kicked off their season in style Wednesday night, dominating the Brooklyn Nets 136-117 at the newly renovated Spectrum Center. A franchise-record nine Hornets scored in double figures, led by Brandon Miller’s 25 points in his return from a wrist injury that sidelined him for much of last season.

Miller, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 draft, bounced back from early foul trouble to ignite a 39-28 second-quarter surge, giving the Hornets a comfortable lead they never relinquished. Miles Bridges contributed 18 points and 11 rebounds, while LaMelo Ball added 20 points and eight assists. Collin Sexton provided a spark off the bench with 15 points.

Head Coach Charles Lee surprised many by starting rookies Kon Knueppel and Ryan Kalkbrenner alongside Ball, Miller, and Bridges. Kalkbrenner impressed with 10 points and 11 rebounds in his NBA debut, while Knueppel chipped in with 11 points. The two rookies started hot, combining to make their first eight shots.

Charlotte’s offense hummed, shooting 53.3% from the field and 47.2% from three-point range. They also dominated the boards, outrebounding the Nets 50-38.

Nic Claxton led the Nets with 17 points, followed by Cam Thomas with 15. Rookie first-round pick Danny Wolf was sidelined for Brooklyn with an ankle sprain.

The Nets will look to rebound Friday night when they host the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Hornets hit the road Saturday to face the Philadelphia 76ers.

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