Charlotte Hornets end Toronto’s nine-game win streak with 118-111 overtime victory as Miles Bridges scores 35 points in dramatic comeback
THE Charlotte Hornets snapped Toronto’s nine-game winning streak with a stunning 118-111 overtime NBA victory on Saturday.
Miles Bridges scored 16 of his 35 points in the fourth quarter and overtime to lead the comeback.
The Raptors appeared to be cruising when they led by 17 points in the first quarter.
Rookie Kon Knueppel added 20 points for Charlotte and drained a crucial three-pointer with 10.1 seconds left in regulation to force overtime.
After Toronto’s Scottie Barnes opened the extra session with a layup, Bridges tied it again with a floater.
Bridges then gave Charlotte their first lead of the game with a three-pointer.
The Hornets wouldn’t trail again, out-scoring the Raptors 14-7 in overtime.
“The whole team set the tone,” Bridges said of the Hornets squad that won their second straight game.
“As a team, we’re bringing a different type of energy.”
Barnes led the Raptors with 30 points, 12 rebounds and five assists in the loss.
Immanuel Quickley and Brandon Ingram added 22 points apiece for Toronto.
The Raptors lost for the first time since November 8 despite their strong individual performances.
Collin Sexton added 18 points off the bench for Charlotte in the upset victory.
Moussa Diabate came up with a big steal late in overtime to keep the Hornets’ bid rolling.
In Minnesota, Anthony Edwards scored 14 of his 39 points in the fourth quarter as the Timberwolves beat Boston 119-115.
The Timberwolves erased a 12-point third quarter deficit in the roller coaster contest.
Mike Conley’s three-pointer put the Wolves back in front during the final minutes.
“I threw up a prayer, God answered it,” Edwards said of his off-balance three-pointer.
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 41 points but Boston’s three-game winning streak ended. – AFP
