The Charlotte Hornets emerged victorious with a 119-115 win over the young Washington Wizards, whose starting five boasted an average age of just 20.64 years. Brandon Miller led the Hornets with 21 points, while Miles Bridges and LaMelo Ball each contributed 20 points. Kon Knueppel added 16, and Moussa Diabate chipped in 11. This was a significant win for the Hornets, who secured back-to-back victories for the first time since January 3-5 against Chicago and Oklahoma City. Tre Johnson had a career-high 26 points and six assists for the Wizards, who, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, boasted the youngest starting lineup in NBA history, dating back to the 1970-71 season. Washington's starting five, at an average age of 20.64 years, surpassed the previous record held by Oklahoma City on April 10, 2021, against Philadelphia. Alex Sarr scored 24 points, Justin Champagnie and Bub Carrington each added 15, and Kyshawn George and Jamir Watkins each contributed 11 for the Eastern Conference-worst Wizards, who fell to 10-34. Will Riley made his first start for Washington, adding seven points in 23 minutes, and Champagnie grabbed 11 rebounds. Washington's losing streak is their second-longest of the season, having last won on January 6 against Orlando. They had previously lost 14 games in a row in October and November. The Hornets took control early, leading by a point after the first quarter and extending their lead to 66-58 at halftime, outscoring the Wizards 31-24 in the second quarter. Washington struggled from beyond the arc, shooting 31% (9 for 29) in the first half, while the Hornets hit 60% of their shots, including 63% from three-point range. The Hornets' advantage grew to 93-81 by the end of the third quarter. The game was moved up six hours due to a winter storm forecast. The Wizards will host the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday to start a five-game homestand, while the Hornets will travel to the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday.
