Hornets Extend Winning Streak to Eight Games as Ball and Knueppel Power Victory Over Rockets

The Charlotte Hornets continued their remarkable late-season surge with a convincing 109-99 victory over the Houston Rockets on Thursday night, extending their winning streak to eight consecutive games. The triumph marks the franchise's most successful stretch since posting nine straight wins during the lockout-shortened 1998-99 season. Rookie sensation Kon Knueppel led the way with 24 points, while All-Star point guard LaMelo Ball contributed 20 points in the dominating performance.

Knueppel, the first-year player out of Duke, has emerged as a crucial scoring threat during Charlotte's winning streak. His 24-point outburst came on efficient shooting, showcasing the offensive versatility that made him a lottery pick. Ball, meanwhile, orchestrated the offense with his trademark playmaking and scoring balance, helping the Hornets maintain control throughout most of the contest. Miles Bridges added 18 points for Charlotte, while Brandon Miller finished with 11 despite sitting out the entire second quarter after picking up three fouls in the opening period.

The Hornets now boast the most wins of any NBA team in calendar year 2026, a stunning turnaround for a franchise that has historically struggled to string together consistent success. Charlotte's eight-game winning streak represents the longest active streak in the entire league, positioning them squarely in playoff contention as the season approaches its final stretch. The team's defense has been particularly impressive during this run, holding opponents to under 100 points in four of the eight victories.

Houston entered the game riding their own momentum but couldn't match Charlotte's intensity and execution. The Rockets struggled to contain the Hornets' versatile offensive attack, particularly in transition where Ball's speed and vision created numerous easy baskets. Houston's defense, which had shown improvement in recent weeks, was unable to slow down Charlotte's balanced scoring attack that featured four players in double figures.

The victory has sparked legitimate playoff conversations in Charlotte, where fans haven't experienced postseason basketball since 2016. The Hornets' combination of young talent and developing chemistry has them positioned to potentially break their lengthy playoff drought. Ball's leadership and Knueppel's instant impact as a rookie have transformed the team's outlook, while veterans like Bridges provide the experience needed for a sustained run.

Charlotte will look to extend their franchise-best streak when they return to action this weekend. If the Hornets can maintain this level of play through the remainder of the season, they could secure their first playoff berth in nearly a decade. The team's transformation from lottery hopeful to playoff contender has been one of the NBA's most pleasant surprises, with Ball and the emerging Knueppel forming a dynamic backcourt that has opposing defenses scrambling for answers.