The Charlotte Hornets have been on quite a journey, transforming from a team often overshadowed by their past struggles to one that’s now capturing the imagination of basketball fans everywhere. For two decades, the Hornets seemed stuck in a cycle of disappointment, but this season marks a turning point in their narrative.
Back in the '90s, the Hornets were a cultural phenomenon. Even if they weren't clinching titles like the Bulls or Rockets, their teal and purple colors were everywhere.
Fans from that era fondly remember sporting Muggsy Bogues jerseys and Hornets Starter jackets. But things took a downturn when former owner George Shinn moved the team to New Orleans due to ownership issues and arena funding problems, leaving Charlotte fans heartbroken.
The NBA eventually expanded, bringing basketball back to Charlotte under the Bobcats name. Despite some standout players like Emeka Okafor and Kemba Walker, the Bobcats era never quite captured the magic of the original Hornets. However, when New Orleans rebranded to the Pelicans, Charlotte reclaimed the Hornets name and history, sparking hope for a revival.
Even with NBA legend Michael Jordan taking majority ownership in 2010, success was elusive. The team made the playoffs only twice in 15 years and struggled financially. The turning point came when Jordan sold his shares to Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall, who then brought in Jeff Peterson as General Manager in 2024.
Peterson, previously an assistant GM with the Brooklyn Nets, was a bit of an unknown but quickly proved his worth. He revamped the team's approach, bringing in head coach Charles Lee, whose strategic risks have paid off. Peterson also honored the franchise's history, retiring Dell Curry's number 30, acknowledging his significant contributions to the team.
This season, the Hornets have been on fire, boasting a 25-11 record in 2026 and eyeing their first playoff appearance since 2016. The buzz is back in Charlotte, and the league is taking notice. NBA analyst Bill Simmons has praised the team's turnaround, highlighting their smart drafting, ownership changes, and the engagement of star player LaMelo Ball.
The Hornets' resurgence even caught the attention of Steph Curry, Dell's son, who hinted at the possibility of joining the team in the future. While he's not making any promises, the idea of playing for the Hornets holds sentimental value for him.
Charlotte’s transformation isn’t just about changing perceptions; it’s about proving their commitment to building a competitive, respected franchise. The Hornets are no longer just a nostalgic memory-they're a team with a bright future, ready to make their mark in the NBA.