The Charlotte Hornets’ 2024-25 NBA season was marked by disappointment both on and off the court. Finishing with a 19-63 record, the Hornets secured the third-worst record in the league, narrowly surpassing the Washington Wizards at 18-64.
This performance extended their playoff drought to nine consecutive seasons, with their last postseason appearance dating back to the 2015-16 season.
The team’s struggles were not limited to their win-loss record. An anonymous survey conducted by The Athletic, involving 158 NBA players, revealed that 38.1% of respondents considered the Hornets the “worst organization” in the league.
This sentiment reflects broader concerns about the franchise’s direction and management.
Challenges in player development and management
Despite possessing young talents like LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, the Hornets have faced challenges in player development and maximizing their potential.
Ball, who averaged 30.4 points per game, and Miller, who had a standout performance with 38 points in a game against the Detroit Pistons, have shown promise. However, injuries and inconsistent team performance have hindered their growth and the team’s overall success.
The Hornets’ organizational issues are compounded by concerns about fan engagement. The same survey that labeled Charlotte the worst organization also highlighted that 15.2% of players felt the Hornets had the “worst fans” in the league, surpassing teams like Detroit and Washington in this category.
This perception underscores the challenges the franchise faces in building a supportive and engaged fan base.
With the hiring of head coach Charles Lee in May 2024, the Hornets are at a crossroads. To change their standing among players and fans, the franchise must focus on developing a winning culture, improving player development, and fostering a more engaged fan base.
Only through these efforts can the Hornets hope to shed their current reputation and build a more successful future.
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