After the Charlotte Hornets fell to the Miami Heat 114-106 on Saturday night, first-year head coach Charles Lee didn’t sugarcoat his performance. Instead, he gave himself an “average” grade and stressed the need for growth. “I keep learning about myself every game,” Lee said, candidly assessing his progress in his debut season. “I tell the guys I’m not perfect either… but I’m gonna get better. Check in with me at the end of the year.”
Lee’s self-reflection comes as the Hornets navigate an early wave of injuries that’s kept key players like Brandon Miller, Josh Green, and Mark Williams off the floor. Even LaMelo Ball, Cody Martin, and Seth Curry were questionable against the Heat. With so many missing pieces, Lee’s performance can hardly be measured by win-loss records alone. The Hornets have clawed back from double-digit deficits in every game this season, a testament to the energy Lee has brought to Charlotte.
The Spectrum Center crowd seems to have noticed the shift, too, roaring with support and giving MVP chants. While Lee’s “average” assessment may be honest, the Hornets’ relentless fight suggests that his culture-building is on point. If Charlotte can keep this resilience going, Hornets fans could be in for a breakthrough season.
