Bam Adebayo’s stellar performance, with 24 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, propelled the Miami Heat to a convincing 104-87 win over the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday night. The Heat’s victory was marked by a never-trailing game, showcasing their dominance throughout.
Tyler Herro added to Miami’s impressive performance with four 3-pointers and 21 points, while Duncan Robinson contributed 19 points. Jaime Jaquez Jr. also scored 15 points but had to leave the game early due to a groin strain. The Heat’s proficiency from beyond the arc was evident as they shot 11 for 25 from 3-point range, sealing a four-game regular-season sweep against the Hornets.
This win extended the Heat’s remarkable streak of 22 consecutive home victories against Southeast Division opponents. Coach Erik Spoelstra praised the team’s approach and attributed their first-half success to a strong defensive effort.
The Hornets, despite Terry Rozier’s 26 points and LaMelo Ball’s 21 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists, struggled to find their rhythm. Their woes were compounded by a first half that set an NBA season-low with only 31 points, hampered by poor shooting and turnovers.
Ball, returning from a 20-game absence due to an ankle injury, tried to rally the Hornets in the third quarter, but Miami’s response shut down any comeback hopes. Charlotte’s losing streak extended to five games, with coach Steve Clifford emphasizing the need for better defense and commitment.
The Hornets’ recent struggles were highlighted by heavy defeats in their last two games, including a 135-99 loss at San Antonio. Forward P.J. Washington called for a stronger team effort and focus on correcting mistakes.
On the Heat’s side, Jaime Jaquez Jr., a key player in his rookie season, will miss the upcoming two-game road trip due to his injury. Star player Jimmy Butler, sidelined with a right foot injury, is nearing the threshold of ineligibility for postseason awards due to limited participation.
The game also had a moment of nostalgia, with a halftime ceremony honoring Dwyane Wade’s Hall of Fame enshrinement. The Heat announced plans to unveil a statue of Wade outside the Kaseya Center next year, and they will retire Udonis Haslem’s jersey in their next home game.
The Heat next face Brooklyn, while the Hornets will try to turn their fortunes around against New Orleans on Wednesday. The game underscored Miami’s resilience and depth, even in the absence of key players like Butler.
