Miller, Mann Fuel Hornets To 122-99 Win Against Hawks

Miles Bridges added 17 points, with Williams and Micic providing significant contributions off the bench, scoring 15 points with 10 rebounds and 13 points with five assists, respectively.

Miller praised the impact of the newcomers, crediting them for the team’s recent success and highlighting the collaborative atmosphere they’ve fostered among the squad.

“Without the guys we brought in, we wouldn’t be winning, for sure,” Miller said. “They helped push all of the young guys and the older guys. Everybody is coaching each other and making each other better.”

The Hornets have seen an uptick in their performance in terms of ball movement and defensive execution. Miller attributed these improvements to better ball movement and enhanced defensive efforts since integrating the new players.

“The ball is not sticking, and our defensive energy has gone up a lot since our first game with them,” Miller said.

Charlotte’s first double-digit win of the season energized fans and showcased the team’s potential for synergy and success. Hornets coach Steve Clifford commended the intelligence and experience of the newly added veterans, particularly noting Williams’s defensive skills and leadership.

“The smarter your group is, everything becomes easier,” Clifford said. “I thought we could be good offensively, but now I’m starting to see the defense can also be really good without having to run around and double team. And Grant Williams is a big part of that.”

De’Andre Hunter led the Hawks with 21 points coming off the bench, and Jalen Johnson recorded a double-double with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Trae Young was contained to 12 points and 12 assists. The Hornets dominated from the start, building a six-point lead by halftime, largely thanks to Miller’s 18 points. They extended their lead significantly in the third quarter, effectively containing the Hawks to just 25 points.

Mann emphasized his versatility and drive, pointing out his contributions beyond scoring, which is evident in his aggressive rebounding and playmaking in the game. The Hornets’ efficient shooting and defensive solid performance limited the Hawks to 40.4% shooting from the field.

“I feel like that’s what I can do,” Mann said. “Coming in the league, I had the reputation of just scoring. In OKC, that’s what it was, but I always felt like I added more to a team, that I can bring more to a team. Now I get that opportunity, so I’m just trying to go out there and show that I can do more than just score.”

Looking ahead, the Hawks will face the Toronto Raptors, while the Hornets are set to play against the Utah Jazz, both games scheduled after the All-Star break.