Charlotte Hornets go for unexpected choice during 2025 NBA Draft Lottery

When the ping pong balls start bouncing at this year’s NBA Draft Lottery, the Charlotte Hornets won’t be sending a player to the podium. Instead, they’re placing their trust—and their 14% shot at the No. 1 pick—squarely in the hands of head coach Charles Lee.

For five straight years, the Hornets have sent players to represent them at the lottery, from Devonte’ Graham in 2020 to Brandon Miller in 2024. This year’s decision to go with Lee marks a significant shift in strategy—and perhaps tone. It’s a symbolic move that signals belief in the new leadership steering the franchise. “We’re building something different here,” GM Jeff Peterson said recently. “Charles represents the vision we’re buying into.”

It’s not the first time Charlotte has put a head coach in the lottery spotlight. Back in 2019, James Borrego was chosen during his first season at the helm. The result? The Hornets stayed put at 12th. But unlike Borrego, Lee arrives with the expectation—and pressure—to turn this franchise around fast. After a 19-63 finish this year, the Hornets have a greater than 50% chance to land in the top four, a potentially franchise-altering moment with prospects like Cooper Flagg on the board.