The Charlotte Hornets’ impressive 10-game winning streak concluded with a 111-99 defeat to the Phoenix Suns, ending their undefeated road run since January 17 against the Golden State Warriors. Phoenix’s Devin Booker, Jalen Green, and Collin Gillespie led the charge with 30, 24, and 24 points respectively, overpowering Charlotte’s efforts in the matchup.
LaMelo Ball Reaches Rare Statistical Achievement
Despite the loss, LaMelo Ball delivered a strong showing with 22 points, seven rebounds, and six assists on 9-for-19 shooting. This performance marked his 100th game scoring at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists before turning 25, placing him as the eighth player in NBA history to reach this milestone and the leader in franchise history for the Hornets, according to ESPN Insights.
“LaMelo Ball has 100 games scoring at least 20 PTS, 5 REB, and 5 AST, the most in Hornets history🔥
He is only the 8th player in NBA history with 100 such games before turning 25 😤
Others include LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Oscar Robertson, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Magic… pic.twitter.com/T3KLyL8lJ2
— ESPN Insights (@ESPNInsights) March 9, 2026
Elite Company Among NBA Legends
The group of players who share this accomplishment with Ball includes current stars and all-time greats such as LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Oscar Robertson, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Magic Johnson. Joining these figures highlights Ball’s potential and impact in the league at such a young age. The Hornets began the game strongly with a fast start, hitting 9 of their first 11 shots, but their field goal percentage dropped to 36% afterward.
Outstanding Contributions from the Suns and Role Players
Devin Booker added a double-double, finishing with 30 points and 10 assists while struggling from beyond the arc with just one of six three-point attempts. Booker was perfect from the free-throw line, converting all 15 of his attempts. Phoenix’s bench also made a difference, with rookie Rasheer Fleming scoring 16 points, including four three-pointers. Despite missing key players like Dillon Brooks, Mark Williams, and Grayson Allen due to injuries, the Suns have won four of their last five games.
Mixed Performances from Charlotte’s Supporting Cast
Kon Knueppel experienced a tough night, making only two of eight three-point attempts and ending with 15 points and four assists. Other notable scorers for Charlotte were Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller, who contributed 16 and 11 points respectively. This defeat dropped the Hornets below a .500 record at 32-33, placing them tenth in the Eastern Conference standings.
Upcoming Matchups and Season Outlook
Looking ahead, Charlotte will face the Portland Trail Blazers as they aim to rebound and improve their position in the playoff race. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns, now 37-27 for the season, prepare to visit the Milwaukee Bucks in their next game. LaMelo Ball’s recent milestone not only marks a personal achievement but also signals his growing influence within the NBA’s elite players, making him a pivotal figure to watch for the Hornets and basketball fans alike in the remainder of the season.
LaMelo Ball has 100 games scoring at least 20 PTS, 5 REB, and 5 AST, the most in Hornets history🔥
He is only the 8th player in NBA history with 100 such games before turning 25 😤
Others include LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Oscar Robertson, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Magic… pic.twitter.com/T3KLyL8lJ2
— ESPN Insights (@ESPNInsights) March 9, 2026
