The best Hornets players of all time have left a lasting impact on Charlotte’s NBA legacy through skill, heart, and leadership. From explosive scorers to elite defenders, these stars shaped the franchise’s identity. While the Hornets have seen ups and downs, their top players delivered unforgettable moments and impressive stats.
This list highlights the ten greatest to ever wear a Hornets uniform. These athletes led playoff runs, broke records, and became fan favorites. Each player brought something unique – whether it was Kemba Walker’s clutch scoring or Muggsy Bogues’ relentless playmaking.
When making NBA picks, understanding a team’s history adds valuable insight. The Hornets’ all-time greats reflect how past excellence can inspire future success. Moreover, these legends helped define eras – from the original 90s Hornets to the modern team.
Some stars shined briefly, while others built long-lasting legacies. However, all earned their place among Charlotte’s elite. As the franchise continues to evolve, their contributions remain essential to its identity.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, learning about these top performers offers a deeper appreciation of Hornets history. Dive in as we rank the ten best Hornets players of all time.
Eddie Jones: Great Two-Way Guard for the Hornets
Career Stats: 14.8 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 2.9 APG; 43.7 FG%, 37.3 3FG%, 80.9 FT%
Notable Achievements: 3x NBA All-Star, 5 All-NBA selections
Eddie Jones ranks 10th on the list of the 10 best Hornets players of all time for his two-way excellence. Though his Charlotte stint was brief, Jones made a significant impact during the 1999–2000 season. He played only 126 games for the Hornets but delivered All-Star and All-Defensive Team performances.
Jones averaged 20.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 steals per game in his lone full season with Charlotte. He led the NBA in steals that year, showcasing elite perimeter defense. His ability to guard multiple positions gave the Hornets a strong defensive identity.
Offensively, Jones served as the team’s top scoring threat. He could create his own shot, knock down threes, and finish in transition. His efficient scoring and unselfish play helped Charlotte reach the playoffs in 2000.
Though his time in Charlotte was short, his contributions were undeniable. He made the All-NBA Third Team and was selected for the 2000 All-Star Game. Few players have packed so much production into such a short tenure.
Therefore, Eddie Jones earns the final spot on this list. His all-around performance and leadership made a lasting impression in Hornets history. He remains one of their most underrated stars.
Dell Curry: “The Original Hornet”
Career Stats: 11.7 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 1.8 APG; 45.7 FG%, 40.2 3FG%, 84.3 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Sixth Man of the Year (1993-94)
Dell Curry ranks 9th on the list of the 10 best Hornets players of all time for his consistent scoring and loyalty. He played ten seasons in Charlotte and became the franchise’s all-time leader in games played and three-pointers made.
Curry had a smooth stroke and deadly accuracy from long range. He averaged double-digit scoring in eight straight seasons, providing instant offense off the bench.
In 1994, he won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award, a rare achievement for a Hornets player. He embraced his role and became a fan favorite for his professionalism and shooting.
Curry’s ability to space the floor gave stars like Larry Johnson and Alonzo Mourning room to dominate inside. His presence made the Hornets’ offense more dynamic and difficult to guard.
Even though he never made an All-Star team, his contributions were vital during the team’s early playoff years. Curry remains the face of the Hornets’ original era and helped build their identity.
Today, Dell Curry is remembered not just as Stephen Curry’s father, who’s one of the best NBA shooters of all time. He is also known as the “Original Hornet” by Hornets fans.
Baron Davis: Fearless Drives and Ferocious Dunks
Career Stats: 16.1 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 7.2 APG; 40.9 FG%, 32.0 3FG%, 71.1 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA All-Star, 1x All-NBA selection
Baron Davis ranks 8th on the list of the 10 best Hornets players of all time due to his explosive playmaking. Drafted third overall in 1999, Davis quickly became the franchise’s floor general and emotional leader.
He led the Hornets to the playoffs in multiple seasons, showcasing his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. His breakout came during the 2001-02 season when he averaged 18.1 points and 8.5 assists per game.
Davis was fearless attacking the rim and could take over games with his scoring and vision. He made two All-Star teams as a Hornet, proving his elite talent.
Though injuries limited parts of his career, he brought excitement every time he stepped on the court. Fans appreciated his hustle, toughness, and creativity with the ball.
Davis also played a key role during the Hornets’ move to New Orleans, helping maintain stability through the transition. His leadership during that period was invaluable.
While his time in Charlotte wasn’t lengthy, his impact was strong and memorable. He brought national attention to the franchise and helped lead playoff runs.
For those reasons, Baron Davis deserves his spot among the Hornets’ elite and remains one of their most dynamic guards ever.
Gerald Wallace: “Crash” Held the Fort During His Bobcat Days
Career Stats: 11.9 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 2.1 APG; 46.9 FG%, 31.2 3FG%, 70.9 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA All-Star
Gerald Wallace ranks 7th on the list of the 10 best Hornets players of all time for his relentless energy and defense. He became the face of the Charlotte Bobcats era and earned the nickname “Crash” for his fearless playing style.
Wallace joined the team in 2004 and quickly became its heart and soul. He consistently filled the stat sheet with points, rebounds, and steals.
In 2010, he became the first Bobcat to make an All-Star team, averaging 18.2 points and 10 rebounds that season. His all-around game helped Charlotte reach its first playoff appearance in the Bobcats era.
Defensively, Wallace was elite. He made the 2010 NBA All-Defensive First Team, disrupting opponents with his hustle and athleticism. Despite long NBA odds, Wallace turned a struggling expansion team into a competitive squad. His leadership and work ethic inspired teammates and fans alike.
Though not a flashy scorer, Wallace consistently impacted games on both ends. His versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions and play multiple roles.
Gerald Wallace earns his place on this list. His effort, grit, and loyalty made him a true cornerstone of the franchise’s modern era.
Muggsy Bogues: Lightning Fast Floor General
Career Stats: 7.7 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 7.6 APG; 45.8 FG%, 27.8 3FG%, 82.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: N/A
Muggsy Bogues ranks 6th on the list of the 10 best Hornets players of all time for his heart, leadership, and defense. Standing at 5’3″, Bogues remains the most iconic of the shortest NBA players ever.
Despite his height, he dominated games with quickness, intelligence, and vision. He spent nearly a decade with Charlotte, becoming the team’s all-time assists and steals leader.
Bogues averaged over eight assists per game during his prime, setting the tempo and creating easy baskets for teammates like Larry Johnson.
Defensively, Bogues had lightning-fast hands and exceptional anticipation. He ranks among the best NBA stealers in Hornets history.
His toughness inspired both teammates and fans, proving that size doesn’t determine impact. He guarded players a foot taller without backing down.
Bogues helped lead Charlotte to its first playoff runs in the early 1990s. His steady presence made the Hornets one of the league’s most exciting teams.
Off the court, he became a community icon and fan favorite in Charlotte. For these reasons, Muggsy Bogues deserves his place in Hornets history.
Glen Rice: Instant Offense and a Deadshot from Deep
Career Stats: 18.3 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.1 APG; 45.6 FG%, 40.0 3FG%, 84.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion (Los Angeles Lakers, 2000), 1 NBA All-Star MVP (1997), 3x NBA All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections
Glen Rice ranks 5th on the list of the 10 best Hornets players of all time for his elite scoring and shooting. Traded to Charlotte in 1995, Rice quickly became the team’s offensive centerpiece and most consistent threat.
He averaged over 23 points per game during his three seasons with the Hornets. His smooth shooting stroke made him nearly unguardable. In 1997, Rice earned All-Star Game MVP honors after scoring 26 points and setting a then-record for points in a quarter.
He also made the All-NBA Second Team in 1997 and the Third Team in 1998. That recognition proved his status among NBA elites. Rice could shoot from deep, drive to the rim, and hit mid-range jumpers with ease. His scoring helped Charlotte reach the playoffs twice.
Though his Hornets tenure was brief, his impact was massive. He elevated the team’s offensive profile and brought national attention to the franchise. His presence allowed teammates like Vlade Divac and Anthony Mason to thrive in complementary roles.
Glen Rice remains one of the franchise’s best pure scorers. For his dominance and accolades, he rightfully earns a top-five spot in Hornets history.
LaMelo Ball: Leading the Hornets in the Modern Age
Career Stats: 21.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 7.4 APG; 42.1 FG%, 36.5 3FG%, 83.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (2020-21), 1x NBA All-Star, 1x NBA All-Rookie selection (2020-21)
LaMelo Ball ranks 4th on the list of the 10 best Hornets players of all time for his dynamic, all-around game. Drafted third overall in 2020, Ball immediately electrified the franchise with flashy passes, deep shooting, and confident leadership.
He won Rookie of the Year in 2021, averaging 15.7 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.9 rebounds per game. Since then, his numbers have consistently improved. Ball earned his first All-Star selection in 2022, becoming the youngest All-Star in Hornets history. His vision and creativity make him a nightly highlight.
He’s a favorite in NBA player props, thanks to his ability to fill the stat sheet across multiple categories. Ball consistently pushes the pace and creates open looks for teammates. His presence alone raises Charlotte’s offensive ceiling.
Though still early in his career, Ball already ranks among the franchise leaders in assists and triple-doubles. Injuries have limited some seasons, but his upside remains enormous. Few young stars match his blend of confidence, skill, and court awareness.
For his rapid impact, star power, and evolving leadership, LaMelo Ball earns his place among the Hornets’ all-time greats. His prime is just beginning.
Alonzo Mourning: Toughness in the Paint
Career Stats: 17.1 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.1 APG; 52.7 FG%, 24.7 3FG%, 69.2 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion (Miami Heat, 2006), 2x NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1998-99, 1999-00), 7x NBA All-Star, 5 All-NBA selections
Alonzo Mourning ranks 3rd on the list of the 10 best Hornets players of all time for his dominant two-way presence.
Drafted second overall in 1992, Mourning made an immediate impact, averaging 21 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks as a rookie. He helped lead Charlotte to its first playoff series win in 1993, hitting a legendary game-winning jumper over Boston.
Defensively, Mourning battled the best NBA centers of the era, including Hakeem Olajuwon, Patrick Ewing, and Shaquille O’Neal. He never backed down. He blocked shots, altered drives, and anchored the paint. His physicality and intensity made the Hornets a tough defensive team.
Offensively, Mourning was a reliable low-post scorer with a strong mid-range jumper and soft touch around the rim. In just three seasons with Charlotte, he averaged 21.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game.
He made two playoff appearances and earned an All-Star selection in 1995 before being traded to Miami. Though his stay was short, Mourning’s impact was massive. He gave the Hornets their first taste of national relevance.
For his dominance on both ends and memorable moments, Alonzo Mourning earns his top-three spot in franchise history.
Larry Johnson: “Grandmama” Held His Own in the Court
Career Stats: 16.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 3.3 APG; 48.4 FG%, 33.2 3FG%, 76.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (1991-92), 2x NBA All-Star, 2x All-NBA selections
Larry Johnson ranks 2nd on the list of the 10 best Hornets players of all time for his power, leadership, and versatility. Drafted first overall in 1991, Johnson immediately became the face of the franchise.
He won Rookie of the Year in 1992, averaging 19.2 points and 11 rebounds per game. By his second season, he earned an All-Star selection and helped lead the Hornets to their first playoff appearance.
Johnson played with intensity and passion, dominating the paint while also stepping outside to hit mid-range shots. Johnson averaged 19.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists during his five years with the team.
He could score, rebound, pass, and defend multiple positions, making him one of the league’s most complete forwards. He formed a powerful duo with Alonzo Mourning, creating one of the league’s most exciting young frontcourts.
Even after injuries reduced his explosiveness, Johnson remained productive and influential on the court. Off the court, “Grandmama” became a cultural icon and helped grow Charlotte’s national profile.
For his impact, popularity, and role in putting the Hornets on the map, Larry Johnson rightfully earns the second spot on this list.
Kemba Walker: Cardiac Kemba Tops the Best Hornets Players of All Time List
Career Stats: 19.3 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 5.3 APG; 41.8 FG%, 36.0 3FG%, 84.0 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Sportsmanship Award Winner (2016-17, 2017-18), 4x NBA All-Star, 1x All-NBA selection
Kemba Walker ranks 1st on the list of the 10 best Hornets players of all time for his scoring, loyalty, and leadership. Drafted ninth overall in 2011, Walker became the heart of the franchise during one of its most challenging eras.
He steadily improved each season, developing into an elite point guard and reliable closer in clutch moments. Walker is the franchise’s all-time leader in points, minutes, three-pointers, and field goals made. His offensive consistency kept the Hornets competitive for years.
In 2019, he earned his third All-Star selection and was named All-NBA Third Team. He averaged over 20 points for four straight seasons. Fans admired his work ethic, humility, and never-quit attitude. He embraced Charlotte and gave the city everything he had.
Despite limited team success, Walker stayed loyal and carried the team into multiple playoff appearances. He also holds the franchise record for most 40-point and 50-point games.
Walker’s scoring, leadership, and longevity made him the face of the Hornets for nearly a decade. For these reasons, Kemba Walker deserves the top spot. He is the greatest Hornet of all time and a true Charlotte legend.
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