LaMelo Ball Dominates Heat with Monster Double-Double

The Charlotte Hornets delivered a remarkable team performance to dominate the Miami Heat 136-106, with LaMelo Ball orchestrating the show. The star point guard compiled 30 points and 13 assists, perfectly conducting his team’s offense in this one-sided affair.

Charlotte (35-34) secured its ninth win in twelve games, confirming its recent strong momentum. The Hornets currently occupy tenth place in the Eastern Conference and continue to fight for a playoff spot.

🎙️ LaMelo Ball on sold-out home crowds and feeling that energy:

« It’s all love. But like I’ve been saying, if you win, this city gonna get behind you. They gonna rock with you. So that’s all we trying to do… just keep winning and putting it on for the city. » pic.twitter.com/SYDV9Pyr5U

— r/CharlotteHornets (@HornetsReddit) March 18, 2026

A Devastating Fourth Quarter to Seal the Victory

After leading 96-88 at the end of the third quarter, Charlotte completely took over in the final twelve minutes. The Hornets outscored Miami 40-18 in the fourth quarter, transforming a close game into a show of force.

Coby White provided a valuable contribution with 24 points off the bench, while rookie Kon Knueppel added 22 points. Brandon Miller completed this offensive showcase with 16 points, illustrating the Hornets’ roster depth.

Miles Bridges recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Moussa Diabaté dominated the paint with 13 rebounds, 8 points and 4 assists. Ball also reached a symbolic milestone by hitting 6,000 career points on a basket scored in the third quarter.

ALSO READ

LaMelo Ball Dominates with 30 Points in Hornets Victory Over Kings

March 12, 2026

Nicolas Flamecourt

Miami Hampered by Absences

The Heat (38-31) felt the impact of numerous absences in their ranks. Bam Adebayo, who scored 83 points last week against Washington, was out due to a right calf strain. The center hadn’t missed a game since December 27.

Tyler Herro tried to keep Miami afloat with 20 points and 8 rebounds, supported by Norman Powell and his 17 points. But the absences of Andrew Wiggins (sixth consecutive game missed due to a toe injury) and Nikola Jovic (twelfth straight game missed with a back injury) weighed heavily.

This defeat ends a five-game winning streak for Miami against Charlotte. The Heat remain seventh in the East, with a half-game lead over Orlando, and will need to regroup quickly before hosting the Lakers on Thursday night.