Hornets Eliminate Heat in Overtime Thriller Behind LaMelo Ball’s 30-Point, 10-Assist Performance

The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Miami Heat 127-126 in an overtime play-in game on Tuesday night, sending the Heat to their first non-playoff season since 2018-19.

LaMelo Ball led the way with a career-defining play-in game performance, scoring 30 points while dishing out 10 assists. He became only the fourth player in play-in game history to reach 30 points and 10 assists in a single game. Miles Bridges added 28 points and nine rebounds, playing a key role in Charlotte’s late-game execution.

The Hornets built a lead in the fourth quarter, but Miami fought back to force overtime. Davion Mitchell answered with 28 points for the Heat, matching Ball’s scoring total. Andrew Wiggins chipped in with 27 points, showing why he remains one of the league’s most versatile two-way players.

The game’s turning point came in the second quarter when Bam Adebayo left with a lower back injury after being tripped by Ball. Adebayo did not return and Miami struggled to find consistency without its dominant big man down the stretch.

Charlotte’s defense held firm in the final moments of overtime, forcing a missed shot on Miami’s last possession. Ball’s clutch free throws and timely passes sealed the win for the Hornets, who now advance to face the loser of the Sixers-Magic matchup on Friday.

The loss ends Miami’s season on a bitter note. The Heat finished with a 34-48 record, missing the playoffs for the first time in six years. Charlotte, at 40-42, will continue its postseason run with the hopes of making a deep run.

Ball’s performance cements his place in play-in game history and gives Hornets fans reason to believe in their young core. With Bridges, Mitchell, and a deep bench, Charlotte is ready for what comes next.