The Charlotte Hornets pulled off a thrilling victory against the San Antonio Spurs on February 7, 2025, overcoming significant challenges to win the game 117-116 at Spectrum Center. The game ended dramatically with Miles Bridges knocking down a 3-pointer, assisted by LaMelo Ball, just 1.4 seconds before the final buzzer sounded.
The game started with the Hornets showing resilience after suffering through a six-game losing streak. Bridges, with an impressive 25 points on 10-of-18 shooting, led his team to victory, showcasing their fighting spirit. Ball, who had just returned from injury, also contributed heavily with 24 points and 10 assists, proving to be pivotal after missing the last five games due to an ankle sprain.
Nick Smith Jr. added to the Hornets' score, finishing with 19 points as part of his fourth consecutive game with at least 15 points. Meanwhile, Moussa Diabate was instrumental under the basket, grabbing 15 rebounds to bolster the Hornets’ frontcourt presence.
On the other side, Spurs rookie Stephon Castle delivered a career-high performance, scoring 33 points and keeping his team competitive. De’Aaron Fox also had his moments, finishing with 22 points, including bringing the Spurs back to life with key shots late in the game. He appeared to have clinched the victory for the Spurs with his mid-range jumper giving them the lead with just under 10 seconds remaining, but the excitement quickly shifted.
Following Bridges' clutch shot, Fox attempted to answer back with his own 3-pointer as time expired. Initially, it looked like he had succeeded, but after crew chief Courtney Kirkland reviewed the play, they concluded he did not release the shot before the buzzer. Referees determined the game was over, leaving the Spurs frustrated at the near miss.
Postgame, Spurs acting coach Mitch Johnson voiced disappointment at the near loss, stating, "That goes under the physicality umbrella. Pretty, pretty disappointing." Despite outscoring the Hornets during stretches, the Spurs struggled to maintain consistency and were outshot from the field and beyond the arc. Johnson pointed out these shortcomings, attributing them to physicality and the need for improvement as they suffered their second loss since Fox's return.
The game served as a turning point for the Hornets, injecting new life and momentum after their recent struggles. Coach Steve Clifford expressed pride at the team’s fight and positivity postgame. The Hornets will look to build on this success as they continue their season. Their upcoming schedule will test their newfound energy.
Meanwhile, the Spurs will be heading to Orlando for their next fixture against the Magic, with tip-off set for 7 p.m. EST. They will aim to bounce back swiftly from this close defeat, fueled by Fox’s determination and the team's potential to capitalize on lessons learned from the game against the Hornets.