Hornets Host First Playoff Home Game in 10 Years

Team celebrates with 'Protect the Hive' T-shirt giveaway for fans

Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:53am

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A cubist, geometric painting featuring overlapping planes of teal, purple, and white, capturing the energy and movement of a Hornets basketball game.The Hornets' return to the playoffs after a decade-long drought has the city of Charlotte buzzing with excitement for the team's first home postseason game.Charlotte Today

The Charlotte Hornets are hosting their first home playoff game in 10 years, and the team is pulling out all the stops to celebrate the occasion. Fans attending the game will receive 'Protect the Hive' t-shirts as the Hornets look to defend their home court advantage.

Why it matters

The Hornets' return to the playoffs after a decade-long drought is a major milestone for the franchise and its loyal fanbase. Home playoff games generate significant excitement and revenue for the team and the city of Charlotte.

The details

The Hornets are giving out 'Protect the Hive' t-shirts to all fans attending the team's first home playoff game in 10 years. The t-shirts are meant to rally the home crowd and create an energetic atmosphere as the Hornets look to defend their home court against their playoff opponent.

  • The Hornets' last home playoff game was in 2016.
  • The Hornets are hosting their first home playoff game of the 2026 postseason on April 15, 2026.

The players

Charlotte Hornets

An NBA franchise based in Charlotte, North Carolina that is making its first playoff appearance at home in 10 years.

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What’s next

The Hornets will look to take a 1-0 series lead with a win in their home playoff opener.

The takeaway

The Hornets' return to the playoffs after a decade-long drought has the city of Charlotte buzzing with excitement. The team's efforts to energize the home crowd, like the 'Protect the Hive' t-shirt giveaway, show how much this playoff appearance means to the franchise and its loyal fanbase.