Hornets 112-99 Bulls: A Thrilling Comeback and Rebounding Victory
CHICAGO -- On January 3, 2026, the Charlotte Hornets pulled off a stunning comeback against the Chicago Bulls, securing a 112-99 victory at the United Center. The Hornets, who had been on a three-game losing streak and were missing several key players due to injuries, faced a formidable challenge against the Bulls, who had won seven of their previous nine games.
Miles Bridges led the charge for the Hornets with 26 points and 14 rebounds, showcasing his versatility and leadership on the court. Brandon Miller contributed 22 points, including three crucial 3-pointers in the third quarter, and Kon Knueppel added 18 points. LaMelo Ball, the Hornets' playmaker, finished with 17 points and seven assists, demonstrating his ability to control the pace of the game.
The Hornets' third-quarter performance was a turning point. They outscored the Bulls 32-17 in the period, with Miller's 3-pointers and the team's strong rebounding playing a significant role. This comeback from a 15-point deficit showcased the Hornets' resilience and determination, as they improved to 5-2 on the second day of back-to-back games.
Nikola Vucevic, the Bulls' star center, had a strong performance with 28 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds. However, the Bulls' guards, Josh Giddey and Coby White, were sidelined by injuries, missing their third consecutive game. The Bulls' starting point guard, Jalen Smith, also had to leave the game in the third quarter due to a concussion after a collision with Ball.
The Bulls' 58-50 lead at halftime was a testament to their early dominance. Ayo Dosunmu's impressive shooting, including a half-court buzzer-beater at the end of the first quarter, contributed to their lead. However, the Hornets' third-quarter surge and their ability to outrebound the Bulls, despite their depleted frontcourt, proved to be the deciding factors in the game.
The Hornets' next challenge awaits them as they travel to Oklahoma City on Monday night, while the Bulls will face the Boston Celtics in a crucial Eastern Conference showdown.
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