The Charlotte Hornets are a professional basketball team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They compete in the Southeast Division of the NBA’s Eastern Conference.
Known for their vibrant teal and purple colors, the Hornets represent energy, community, and resilience.
The franchise has built a strong connection with Charlotte’s passionate fan base. The team’s mascot, Hugo the Hornet, adds excitement to every game.
The Hornets continue to focus on growth, emphasizing player development and team chemistry.
Where Do the Hornets Play?
The Hornets play their home games at the Spectrum Center, located in uptown Charlotte. The arena opened in 2005 and features a seating capacity of around 19,000 for basketball games.
The Spectrum Center provides fans with a lively and modern game-day experience. It hosts concerts, community events, and major sports tournaments, making it a centerpiece of Charlotte’s entertainment district.
The arena’s design reflects the city’s vibrant energy and commitment to innovation.
History of the Charlotte Hornets
The Charlotte Hornets were established in 1988 as an expansion franchise. The team quickly became a fan favorite due to its exciting style and strong local support. Led by stars like Larry Johnson, Alonzo Mourning, and Muggsy Bogues, the Hornets made several playoff appearances in the 1990s.
However, financial and ownership challenges led to the team relocating to New Orleans in 2002, becoming the New Orleans Hornets. Charlotte’s basketball spirit remained strong, and in 2004, the NBA awarded the city a new expansion team – the Charlotte Bobcats.
In 2014, the franchise reclaimed the Hornets name after New Orleans rebranded as the Pelicans. The return of the original name and history reignited excitement among fans.
Since then, the Hornets have worked to rebuild their legacy. The team has focused on developing young talent, with players like Kemba Walker, LaMelo Ball, and Miles Bridges carrying the franchise forward.
Interesting Facts & Team Milestones
- The Hornets’ original logo and color scheme became cultural icons in the 1990s.
- The team’s name honors Charlotte’s nickname, “The Hornet’s Nest,” dating back to the Revolutionary War.
- Michael Jordan, a North Carolina native, became the team’s principal owner in 2010, making him the first former NBA player to own a majority stake in a team.
- The franchise retired its first jersey number, #13, to honor long-time announcer Dell Curry’s contributions to the organization.
Notable Charlotte Hornets Players
The Hornets have featured many exciting and influential players throughout their history:
Larry Johnson
A dominant forward and 1992 Rookie of the Year.
Alonzo Mourning
A fierce NBA defender and two-time All-Star with Charlotte.
Muggsy Bogues
The shortest player in NBA history at 5’3″, known for his speed and leadership.
Glen Rice
A sharpshooting forward and three-time All-Star.
Baron Davis
An explosive point guard who brought energy and excitement to the early 2000s teams.
Kemba Walker
The franchise’s all-time leading scorer and a fan favorite for his clutch performances.
LaMelo Ball
A young star and 2021 Rookie of the Year, known for his playmaking and flair.
Looking for more Charlotte players? Check out our list of the best Hornets players of all time!
Notable Charlotte Hornets Coaches
The Hornets’ success has been shaped by a variety of coaches who influenced the team’s direction:
Allan Bristow (1991-1996)
Guided the Hornets to their first playoff appearances and helped develop their early identity.
Dave Cowens (1996-1999)
Led the team to consistent playoff contention during his tenure.
Paul Silas (1999-2002, 2010-2012)
A steady leader who emphasized defense and team chemistry.
Steve Clifford (2013-2018, 2022-2024)
Known for discipline and strong defensive systems, Clifford has guided multiple playoff runs.
James Borrego (2018-2022)
Focused on player development and introduced a fast-paced, offensive style.