Jordan Poole hit a decisive 3-pointer with 8.1 seconds left, leading the Washington Wizards (5-23) to a thrilling 113-110 victory over the Charlotte Hornets (7-23) on Thursday night.
The Wizards initially built a commanding 21-point lead in the second quarter, but the Hornets stormed back, setting up a tense fourth-quarter battle. After trading leads in the final minute, Poole’s step-back 3-pointer proved to be the game-winner, capping off a stellar 25-point performance.
Charlotte had a chance to force overtime, but Brandon Miller’s late 3-point attempt missed, and LaMelo Ball’s putback failed to connect. Wizards forward Justin Champagnie added a free throw with 1.6 seconds left to seal the outcome.
The Hornets, who have now lost 14 of their last 15 games, saw Ball lead all scorers with 31 points. Mark Williams contributed 16 points, including a clutch alley-oop dunk in the final moments, while Miller chipped in 18 in his return from an ankle injury.
Rookie Alex Sarr played a pivotal role for Washington, securing a go-ahead tip-in with 14.8 seconds remaining before Poole’s heroics. Bilal Coulibaly also impressed with 20 points and six rebounds.
Josh Green’s missed free throws late in the game loomed large for Charlotte. The Hornets shot 78.6% from the line overall but couldn’t capitalize on crucial opportunities down the stretch.
Defensively, the Wizards forced 20 turnovers, converting them into 24 points. Poole’s final 3-pointer was one of five he made on the night, providing a critical spark for a Washington offense that shot 31.8% from deep as a team.
