Charlotte Hornets Shock NBA Leaders Oklahoma City with Comprehensive 124-97 Victory - Sportingpedia - Latest Sports News From All Over the World

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander trying to receive the ball

Key Takeaways:

Brandon Miller contributed 28 points as Charlotte defeated Oklahoma City 124-97 on Monday night
Oklahoma City were held to a season-low 97 points and failed to surpass the 100-point mark for the first time this campaign
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander extended his streak with 21 points, marking his 108th consecutive game with at least 20 points

Match Overview

The Charlotte Hornets delivered a commanding performance to upset the NBA-leading Oklahoma City Thunder, winning 124-97 on Monday evening at the Paycom Center. Brandon Miller spearheaded the Hornets’ attack with 28 points, supported by Kon Knueppel who scored 23. The result marked Oklahoma City’s heaviest defeat of the season and the lowest points they have managed to put up during the current campaign.

wornets pic.twitter.com/rCNGNJrgka
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) January 6, 2026

Key Player Contributions

Brandon Miller dominated proceedings, notching 19 of his 28 points before the interval to hand Charlotte early control. Kon Knueppel also made a significant impact for the Hornets, adding 23 points to the team’s tally. Meanwhile, LaMelo Ball delivered a highlight-reel moment early in the third period by gathering a loose ball near the sideline and converting a difficult shot with one leg balanced on the three-point arc, pushing Charlotte further ahead.

For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander provided 21 points, marking his 108th straight game with at least 20 points, the second-longest streak in NBA history. However, Gilgeous-Alexander struggled with his shooting, finishing just 7-for-21 from the field and recording only 9 points on 3-for-12 shooting during the first half. Notably, this time his absence from the final quarter was due to Oklahoma City trailing, rather than holding an insurmountable lead.

Game Progression and Analysis

The Hornets established an early 21-9 advantage before the Thunder, energised by Ajay Mitchell’s 10 bench points, drew level at 33-all by the quarter’s end. Charlotte responded by retaking momentum in the second period, opening a 67-50 lead at half-time. Oklahoma City’s free throw shooting hindered any comeback attempt, as they converted only 8 of 15 attempts before the break.

Charlotte continued to assert their dominance in the second half. Miller’s three-pointer, as the buzzer sounded to conclude the third quarter, extended the Hornets’ lead to 99-71. From there, Charlotte retained full control, denying the Thunder any chance of a late resurgence.