SALT LAKE CITY — In a thrilling game on Wednesday night, Mark Williams delivered an exceptional performance, netting a personal best of 31 points along with 13 rebounds, propelling the Charlotte Hornets to a 117-112 victory against the Utah Jazz.
LaMelo Ball contributed significantly with 27 points, along with nine assists and three blocks, aiding in Charlotte’s effort to break a seven-game losing streak on the road. Miles Bridges also shined with a double-double, scoring 25 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, while Brandon Miller rounded out the scoring with 20 points.
For Utah, Keyonte George was the standout player, finishing with 26 points and six assists. Brice Sensabaugh was another key player for the Jazz, adding 19 points to the score. Sensabaugh played a pivotal role during a critical 19-2 run, scoring consecutively to turn an 11-point first-quarter deficit into a 26-20 lead for the Jazz.
The Hornets were behind for much of the game but managed to inch ahead in the fourth quarter, taking a 98-97 lead after Bridges and Ball made back-to-back baskets. The Jazz fought back, reclaiming the lead with consecutive three-pointers from Sensabaugh and George. However, the Hornets responded with a decisive 9-0 run, capped off by a running layup from Miller that put Charlotte ahead 111-105 with just 2:50 remaining.
Several takeaways emerged from the matchup. The Hornets showcased impressive offensive prowess, with four players scoring at least 20 points and shooting 53% overall. They particularly excelled in the fourth quarter, where they tallied 37 points. Utah saw George return to the lineup following a five-game hiatus due to heel inflammation, marking his sixth game this season with 20 or more points. Additionally, point guard Isaiah Collier achieved a season-high with 10 assists.
A pivotal moment in the game came when the Hornets unleashed a burst of energy, scoring four straight baskets, culminating in a spectacular dunk by Williams with 4:13 remaining, ensuring they would maintain control of the game.
Notably, Charlotte’s top three scorers all demonstrated remarkable shooting efficiency, with Williams leading the way by making 12 of his 14 attempts from the field.
Both teams are scheduled to return to action on Friday night, with the Hornets facing off against Chicago, while the Jazz will take on New Orleans.
