The Charlotte Hornets delivered a statement performance on Friday night, defeating the Chicago Bulls 123-116 in their final NBA Cup group play matchup at Spectrum Center. The win marked a crucial turning point for Charlotte, snapping a frustrating seven-game losing streak and providing momentum heading into the regular season stretch.
Brandon Miller Leads Hornets Offensive Onslaught
Brandon Miller was the catalyst for Charlotte's victory, pouring in 27 points on an efficient 10-of-19 shooting performance, including five made three-pointers. The young forward looked increasingly comfortable as the game progressed, showcasing the offensive versatility that has made him a key piece of the Hornets' future.
Supporting Miller's strong showing,
Miles Bridges contributed 22 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while
Collin Sexton came off the bench to add a crucial 21 points.
LaMelo Ball chipped in 16 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds, though he was looking to bounce back after a frustrating outing against the New York Knicks where he struggled defensively and picked up a technical foul.
Bulls' Offensive Struggles Prove Costly
Despite strong individual performances, Chicago couldn't overcome their perimeter shooting woes. The Bulls managed just 8 of 36 from three-point range—a dismal
22% clip that ultimately sealed their fate.
Josh Giddey nearly recorded a triple-double for the Bulls, finishing with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists.
Coby White matched Giddey's 25-point output, while
Nikola Vucevic provided 13 points and 14 rebounds in a losing effort.
Momentum Shifts Define Fourth Quarter Drama
The game remained competitive throughout, with multiple lead changes keeping both teams engaged. The pivotal moment came early in the fourth quarter when the Hornets went on a decisive 12-4 run with White on the bench. Sexton's crucial putback extended Charlotte's lead to 11 points, and the Hornets' defense held firm as Chicago continued to struggle from beyond the arc.
Late-game tension flared when Giddey had a heated exchange with a fan near the front row, resulting in the spectator's ejection from the arena. Giddey later downplayed the incident, simply stating the fan "said something I didn't like."
Tournament Implications and Looking Ahead
Both teams entered Friday's contest already eliminated from NBA Cup contention, making the matchup a final opportunity to build momentum before the regular season grind continues. For Charlotte, the victory provides psychological relief after a brutal stretch, while Chicago will look to regroup when they visit Indiana on Sunday night.
The Hornets will host the Toronto Raptors on Saturday night as they attempt to build on this crucial win.
1.
Fox Sports - Bulls vs Hornets Game Box Score2.
CBS Chicago - Miller Scores 27 Points, Hornets Beat Bulls3.
YouTube - Full Game Highlights
Sources
1. Chicago Bulls vs. Charlotte Hornets - Live Score
2. Miller scores 27 points, Hornets beat Bulls 123-116 to end ...
3. Chicago Bulls vs Charlotte Hornets Full Game Highlights
4. Hornets vs Bulls scores & predictions
5. Bulls vs. Hornets (29 Nov, 2025) Live Score
6. Charlotte Hornets v Chicago Bulls LIVE 29/11/2025
