Hornets' Knueppel Shines in Mavericks Win

0:00On March 4th, the Charlotte Hornets pulled off a big win against the Dallas Mavericks, beating them 117-90 on March 3rd, 2026 at home. Rookie star Conn Newepple led the charge, earning his 4th straight Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month award, and helping push Charlotte to 5. Hundreds for the first time this late in the season since 2015-16, it marked their fifth win in a row in front of a packed crowd. Throughout Dallas's Rookie standout Cooper Flag, sidelined by a foot injury since early February, the Mavericks were shorthanded. Newepple still shone with 13 points, seven rebounds and five assists, topping all rookies in February, scoring at 21.5 points, per game, and becoming the first in Hornets history with four monthly honors. Coach Charles Lee praised the Newepple's steady improvement and daily grind, saying it fits the team's focus. Mavericks coach Jason Kade highlighted Lamello Ball's growth too, noting his smart defense, passing vision, and energy despite a tough shooting night, where he scored 15 points with

1:04nine assists. Kade also pushed for Hornets coach Charles Lee as a top candidate for NBA coach of the year, crediting how he's built a competitive young squad. Quickly, meanwhile, new addition Colby White sat out in street clothes for routine maintenance, nothing serious after his recent trade from Chicago. With this surge, the Hornets keep building momentum heading into the stretch run, showing real promise under Lee. But this surge, the Hornets keep building momentum heading into the stretch run, showing real promise under Lee.