CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — In a decisive clash on March 18, 2025, the Atlanta Hawks dominated the Charlotte Hornets 134-102, completing a clean sweep of their four-game season series. Trae Young led the charge with an impressive 31 points, while Dyson Daniels contributed significantly with 22 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Meanwhile, Zaccharie Risacher shone in the second half, netting 21 points, four of which came from three-point range, as the Hawks bounced back from a recent loss to the Brooklyn Nets.
The game saw the Hawks pull ahead early, leading 70-57 at halftime. A particularly productive third quarter from Risacher, who scored 16 points in that period alone, expanded Atlanta’s lead to as much as 35 points. The Hawks found success from beyond the arc, hitting 22 of their 45 three-point attempts, a remarkable 48.9% conversion rate.
The Hornets, fielding a depleted squad without key players LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges, struggled to keep pace. DaQuan Jeffries and Seth Curry each scored 19 points, but the team’s performance was marred by 17 turnovers, limiting their ability to score effectively. The absence of Ball, sidelined with wrist soreness, was particularly felt as Charlotte faltered, facing a defensive onslaught from the Hawks.
Onyeka Okongwu made his presence known early, scoring 10 points within the first four minutes and finishing with 15 points and 10 rebounds overall. His strong performance set a positive tone for the Hawks, who knew they had to capitalize on the absence of key Hornets players.
The Hornets couldn’t find their rhythm, concluding the game with a disappointing shooting performance from beyond the arc, making just 10 of 30 attempts (33.3%). Marcus Garrett and other contributors scored less than expected, with Mark Williams only managing four points in 23 minutes.
With this victory, the Hawks positioned themselves closer to playoff contention, now just 5.5 games behind the Detroit Pistons for the sixth playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The upcoming games will be critical as they host the Golden State Warriors this Saturday, March 22, 2025.
The Hornets have a challenging path ahead, set to face off against the New York Knicks on Thursday, March 20, 2025. The recent losses have put them in a tough spot, needing to regroup and find solutions for their offensive struggles.
This matchup proved key for the Hawks, demonstrating their ability to capitalize on an opponent's weaknesses and utilize their shooting prowess. The Hawks will look to ride this momentum moving forward as they strive for a playoff berth.
