December 15th - The Hornets defeated the Cavaliers 119-111 in overtime. Miller contributed 25 points, 13 rebounds, and 6 assists, Knipple scored 29 points, and Bridges had 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. For the Cavaliers, Garland had 26 points and 9 assists, and Mitchell had 17 points and 7 assists, but they couldn't help their team hold on to their home court.

The Cavaliers started the game with a 7-2 run to take the lead. However, the Hornets, led by Miller and Knipple, rallied to tie the game and build a 9- point advantage. At the end of the first quarter, the Hornets led 33-29 . In the second quarter, the Cavaliers tried to close the gap, at one point trailing by only one point. At the crucial moment, the Hornets unleashed an 11-0 run, extending their lead to double digits. Although the Cavaliers responded somewhat at the end of the quarter, the Hornets still led 57-47 at halftime.

After switching sides, Bridges scored both inside and outside, helping the Hornets extend their lead to 17 points at one point. At the end of the third quarter, the Hornets maintained their lead at 88-79 . In the final quarter, the Cavaliers came out strong, with Garland scoring consecutive points to lead the team to a comeback victory. In the crucial moments, Miller hit consecutive three-pointers to stabilize the situation. The two teams traded leads multiple times, ending in a 111-111 tie before regulation time , forcing overtime.

In overtime, the Hornets completely dominated their opponents with excellent teamwork and solid defense, going on an 8-0 run to secure the victory. Ultimately, the Hornets defeated the Cavaliers 119-111 .

Hornets player statistics

Knipple 29 points , 4 rebounds, 3 assists; Miller 25 points , 13 rebounds , 6 assists; Bridges 20 points , 10 rebounds, 6 assists; James 9 points, 7 rebounds , 3 assists; Green 8 points , 2 rebounds ; Kalckbrenner 7 points , 3 rebounds; Simpson 6 points, 4 assists; Saron 6 points, 2 rebounds , 2 assists; Diabate 5 points , 6 rebounds

Cavaliers player statistics

Garland 26 points , 2 rebounds, 9 assists; Mitchell 17 points , 2 rebounds , 7 assists; Tyson 16 points, 13 rebounds, 1 assist; Wade 14 points , 8 rebounds , 2 assists ; Bryant 10 points , 6 rebounds , 1 assist; Allen 9 points, 3 rebounds , 1 assist; Ball 8 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists; Tomlin 7 points , 3 rebounds; Hunter 4 points, 4 rebounds; Prockett 2 assists