CHARLOTTE, December 31, 2025: The Golden State Warriors needed a spark to end 2025, and they found it in a high-octane 130-122 victory over the Charlotte Hornets, surviving a barrage from Charlotte’s young core at the Spectrum Center.
While the Warriors (18-16) secured the win to climb two games above .500, the story of the night was the fearless play of Charlotte’s rookie sensation, Kon Knueppel. The Duke product, drafted 4th overall earlier this year, looked every bit the lottery pick, pouring in 20 points on efficient 7-of-10 shooting, including four three-pointers.
Young Hornets Sting, But Don’t Kill Charlotte (11-22) refused to go quietly, led by third-year star Brandon Miller. Miller continued his ascent as one of the league’s premier scorers, dropping a game-high 33 points in 36 minutes. He was flanked by LaMelo Ball, who orchestrated the offense with 24 points and 5 assists, and Collin Sexton, who added 16 points and 8 assists in a starting role.
Despite the offensive fireworks, the Hornets’ defense couldn’t contain Golden State’s veteran savvy down the stretch. The Warriors’ “fading dynasty” proved it still has enough firepower to outgun younger, faster teams, successfully neutralizing the Hornets’ late rally.
Around the League: Porzingis Returns Elsewhere in the NBA, the Atlanta Hawks welcomed a familiar face back to the lineup. Kristaps Porzingis, acquired by Atlanta in the offseason, made his return against the Minnesota Timberwolves after missing 10 games with an illness. The 7-foot-3 center checked out late in the first quarter with the Hawks trailing 27-24, looking to stabilize an Atlanta frontcourt that has been desperate for his rim protection and spacing.
