Hornets prepare for primetime matchup with Lakers

CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Hornets hosted the Los Angeles Lakers at the Spectrum Center Monday night, marking the first time in 17 years that people could watch the Hornets for free on local over-the-air television.

Bringing the Buzz: Charlotte Hornets announce primetime games on Ch. 9, TV64

The Hornets, currently on a hot streak, have won five of their last eight games, generating excitement among fans and players alike. The game will be accessible to nearly one million households across 22 counties, showcasing the team’s recent success to a broader audience.

“I would say we talk a lot about the community. All the Carolinas are really important to us,” said Coach Charles Lee, emphasizing the significance of fan support. “I’ve actually noticed how great the crowd support has been for every home game.”

Fans support Hornets with sell-out games

The Hornets have sold out the Spectrum Center eight times this season, including a recent noon game against Dallas. Despite a challenging start to the season, with only seven wins before the new year, fan support has remained strong and is appreciated by the players.

It’s Gameday in the Hive!

For the first time in nearly 20 years, you watch the Hornets locally, over-the-air for FREE on @wsoctv!

We’re live from Spectrum Center getting you ready for the game, ahead of tip-off at 7 PM! #Hornets | #Lakers | #HiveMentality pic.twitter.com/0TMZmSubKB
— DaShawn Brown (@DaShawnWSOC9) January 27, 2025

Hornets forward Josh Green highlighted the impact of playing at home, saying, “It’s always amazing to be out there and just play with energy. It helps us a lot being here, home court advantage.”

With the game being broadcast on Channel 9, the Hornets have an opportunity to showcase their recent improvements and strong community support to a wider audience. The team’s ability to maintain fan enthusiasm despite early struggles is a testament to their resilience and connection with the community.