Hornets Secure 'Mature Victory' in Play-In Tournament Push

Charlotte team takes key wins against Phoenix and Indiana to improve seeding for postseason tournament.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:19pm

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The Charlotte Hornets have secured a crucial pair of wins against the Phoenix Suns and Indiana Pacers in their quest to secure a favorable seeding for the NBA's play-in tournament. Head coach Steve Clifford praised his team's 'very mature' performance, which has put them in a strong position to clinch a postseason berth.

Why it matters

The Hornets have been fighting to return to the playoffs after a few down seasons, and these recent wins against top Eastern Conference opponents have boosted their chances of earning a higher seed in the play-in tournament. A better seeding could give them a better path to the playoffs and a chance to make a deeper run.

The details

In their two-game homestand, the Hornets first defeated the Phoenix Suns, one of the top teams in the West, by a score of 112-105. They then followed that up with a 108-101 win over the Indiana Pacers, another key Eastern Conference foe. Coach Clifford credited his team's disciplined and composed play, saying they executed their game plan to perfection in both victories.

  • The Hornets' homestand began on Thursday, March 28, 2026.
  • They defeated the Phoenix Suns on that opening night.

The players

Steve Clifford

The head coach of the Charlotte Hornets, who has guided the team through a rebuilding period and now has them in position to make the playoffs.

Charlotte Hornets

The NBA franchise based in Charlotte, North Carolina, who are fighting to return to the postseason after a few down seasons.

Phoenix Suns

One of the top teams in the Western Conference, who the Hornets defeated in their recent home matchup.

Indiana Pacers

An Eastern Conference foe that the Hornets also beat during their recent two-game homestand.

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What they’re saying

“We played a very mature, disciplined game against two tough opponents. The guys executed the game plan perfectly in both wins.”

— Steve Clifford, Head Coach, Charlotte Hornets

What’s next

The Hornets will look to continue their strong play as they head out on the road for a challenging stretch of games against several playoff contenders.

The takeaway

The Hornets' recent victories over quality opponents have put them in a great position to secure a favorable seeding in the NBA's play-in tournament, giving them a better chance to return to the playoffs and potentially make a deep postseason run.