Hornets Impress Without Suspended Teammates

Brandon Miller leads Charlotte to victory over Hawks as team steps up in absence of key players.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Charlotte Hornets won 110-107 over the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday, despite being without suspended players Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate. Hornets forward Brandon Miller had an impressive performance with 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks, while LaMelo Ball added 24 points. PJ Hall also stepped up with a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds. Head coach Charles Lee praised his team's "heart" and "competitive spirit" in the win.

Why it matters

The Hornets have been on a strong run, winning 9 straight games before their recent loss. This victory without two key players shows the team's depth and ability to adapt, which could bode well for their playoff chances as they continue to fight for positioning in the Eastern Conference.

The details

The Hornets were involved in a brawl that led to 4-game suspensions for Bridges and Diabate. But the team stepped up in their absence, with Miller, Ball, and Hall leading the way to the 110-107 win over the Hawks. Head coach Charles Lee was proud of his team's effort and competitiveness in the face of adversity.

  • The Hornets' 9-game winning streak was snapped with a loss to the Detroit Pistons on Monday.
  • Bridges and Diabate were suspended for 4 games following the brawl incident.
  • The Hornets defeated the Hawks 110-107 on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Brandon Miller

A Hornets forward who had an impressive performance with 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks in the win over the Hawks.

LaMelo Ball

The Hornets' star guard who scored 24 points in the victory.

PJ Hall

A Hornets player who stepped up with a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds in the absence of Bridges and Diabate.

Miles Bridges

A key Hornets player who was suspended for 4 games following a brawl incident.

Moussa Diabate

Another Hornets player who was suspended for 4 games along with Bridges after the brawl.

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What they’re saying

“Just the heart, that competitive spirit that we've been preaching all season and all summer. We've come a long way. Credit to our summer work and what we do. Our preparation every day.”

— Brandon Miller (Sporting News)

“Credit to our summer work and what we do. Our preparation every day.”

— Brandon Miller (Sporting News)

What’s next

The Hornets have three more games to play without Bridges and Diabate. They will look to continue their strong play and fight for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

The Hornets' ability to win without two key players shows the team's depth and resilience. This could be a valuable experience that helps the team come together and build momentum as they push for the playoffs.