The Charlotte Hornets are off to an impressive start to the 2026–27 NBA season, improving to 3–1 after defeating the Washington Wizards 110–103 behind a spectacular 39-point performance from Brandon Miller.
Miller was the difference-maker, shooting 53.6% from the field while adding six rebounds, three steals and two blocks. His scoring performance helped Charlotte overcome a Washington team that actually shot the basketball more efficiently.
Charlotte Wins the Battle on the Glass
The Hornets outrebounded Washington 54–41, establishing a significant advantage in one of basketball's most important categories.
Moussa Diabaté delivered an outstanding performance with 11 points, 17 rebounds and three blocks. Naz Reid added 18 points and 12 rebounds, giving Charlotte another physical presence around the basket.
Together, Diabaté and Reid collected 29 rebounds, just 12 fewer than Washington's entire team.
Charlotte also forced the issue defensively, recording eight steals while committing only 11 turnovers compared with Washington's 14.
Washington's Star Power Wasn't Enough
Anthony Davis led the Wizards with 29 points and 10 rebounds, while Trae Young contributed 22 points and 10 assists.
Kyshawn George added 20 points, giving Washington three players with at least 20 points.
The Wizards shot 48% from the field compared with Charlotte's 43%. Washington also held a 56–50 advantage in points in the paint.
Despite those advantages, Washington couldn't overcome Charlotte's rebounding and defensive activity.
S³ Game Analysis: Winning Without Shooting Better
Charlotte's victory demonstrates why field-goal percentage alone doesn't determine basketball games.
S³ Key Numbers
- Brandon Miller: 39 PTS | 6 REB | 3 STL | 2 BLK
- Moussa Diabaté: 11 PTS | 17 REB | 3 BLK
- Naz Reid: 18 PTS | 12 REB
- Rebounding: Charlotte 54, Washington 41
- Steals: Charlotte 8, Washington 4
- Turnovers: Charlotte 11, Washington 14
- Fast-break points: Charlotte 10, Washington 4
Charlotte didn't have the better shooting night, but the Hornets created advantages through rebounding, defensive pressure and transition opportunities.
S³ Final Word
The Hornets are 3–1, and Brandon Miller is giving Charlotte a legitimate offensive centerpiece.
The impressive part of this victory wasn't simply Miller's 39 points. It was Charlotte finding ways to win despite shooting below Washington's percentage.
Four games into the season, the Hornets are showing encouraging signs of balance between individual scoring, rebounding and defense.
The challenge now is consistency. A strong opening four games can generate excitement, but Charlotte must demonstrate that these performances can translate into sustained success throughout the season.
S³ | SWEET SCIENCE SPORTS
Beyond the Score. Inside the Game.
