Hive Hoops: Recent Episodes
Joshua Balta
On this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta celebrates the Hornets' offseason that fans have been dreaming of and calling for for years now.
Free Agency has begun. Well, unless you are the Charlotte Hornets. But, if you have been paying attention, newly-hired VP of Basketball Ops Jeff Peterson has been telling us what to expect. There has been no word on the Miles Bridges front. Will he be back in Charlotte? Should he be back in Charlotte? At what price? Which team could swoop in? What trade package could tempt the Hornets enough to move off of Bridges and continue to asset accumulate?
You can find out right here on this episode of Hive Hoops!
The Charlotte Hornets surprised everyone and selected Tidjane Salaün 6th overall Wednesday night. Our host Joshua Balta provides his draft night thoughts on the selection.
Corban Ford from PUMAPro, Swish Theory, The Lead, and Basketball Intelligence joins our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss last-minute draft affairs and what the Charlotte Hornets will ultimately do Wednesday night. Trade up for Sheppard? Castle? Trade back for Ron Holland or Devin Carter? Stay pat at 6? Dillingham to Charlotte? All of this and more can be found right here on this episode of Hive Hoops!
Reports suggest that Charlotte could move up to draft Reed Sheppard or Stephon Castle in the 2024 NBA Draft. Dalton Knecht has also been linked to the Hornets in recent reports. Our host, Joshua Balta, tells us why Charlotte is in a good spot to move up, stay at 6, or even trade down on this episode of Hive Hoops.
Corban Ford from PUMA Pro16/Swish Theory/Basketball Intelligence joins Hive Hoops to give us his Draft Big Board. Who does Corban have #1 overall? Who are his Tier 1 Prospects? Tier 2? Concerns with Stephon Castle? The episode finishes with a "Would You Rather" segment focused on who better fits what the Hornets need. Lock in for another great episode of Hive Hoops!
Lather, rinse, repeat. Would you really be experiencing a Hornets offseason without talking about selecting in the lottery of the NBA Draft and off-the-court issues? Corban Ford from Swish Theory/The Lead/Roster Reconstruction joins our host Joshua Balta to talk Charles Lee, who at pick 6, and LaMelo Ball.
On this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta takes you around the league to check-in on former Hornets players, and those that have a connection to the team (or specific player) during the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
You cannot have Lady Lottery Luck on your side every year, right? The Hornets slide down to the sixth overall selection in the 2024 NBA Draft following Sunday's Lottery results. Our host, Joshua Balta, provides his early thoughts on who the Hornets should target with their 1st round selection.
Charles Lee is the new Head Coach of the Charlotte Hornets. Our host Joshua Balta provides his initial reaction on this episode of Hive Hoops!
Corban Ford from The Lead, Swish Theory, and the podcast "Roster Reconstruction" joins our host Joshua Balta to discuss Charlotte's coaching search. Are we growing worried? Should we be? Is this another cycle like the one that left the Hornets scrambling two years ago? Find out right here on this episode of Hive Hoops!
The Lakers have fired Darvin Ham and in typical Lakers "taking over Charlotte on a wintry Wednesday night in Uptown" fashion they have decided to interview Charlotte's, presumably, top candidates in Charles Lee and JJ Redick which elongates and possibly alters the course of Charlotte's search. Our host Joshua Balta provides his initial reaction to the news on this episode of Hive Hoops!
Ben from Hornets Twitter joins the show to talk about the gaining momentum of a possible JJ Redick hire and the rest of the Charlotte Hornets Head Coaching search.
The NBA Playoffs have begun, and yet again no Charlotte Hornets. But when that day comes... !!!!!!!!!!!!! There is no new news on the head coaching hire. Our host, Joshua Balta, gives his take as to why that might be on this episode of Hive Hoops!
On this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta takes you through his quick thoughts on the Hornets' season, and what the next steps are and should be as Charlotte moves into the off-season.
The Charlotte Hornets are set to interview more candidates for the open Head Coaching position. Our host Joshua Balta gives his thoughts on why this is a good thing.
On this episode of Hive Hoops we discuss Steve Clifford announcing that he will be stepping down as the Head Coach of the Charlotte Hornets at the end of the season and moving into an advisory role within the Front Office of the Organization. Our host Joshua Balta takes you through his thoughts on Steve Clifford, how the process was handled, and who the top three names should be on the Charlotte Hornets' coaching search list.
The Charlotte Hornets officially shutdown LaMelo Ball for the season. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you through initial thoughts and what concerns there are moving forward.
Hornets Twitter Ben joins the show to talk Miles Bridges, LaMelo Ball, and the rest of the roster moving into next season on this episode of Hive Hoops!
On this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta takes you behind his thoughts on Jeff Peterson's biggest remarks from his press conference on Wednesday at the Spectrum Center which introduced him as the EVP of Basketball Operations for the Charlotte Hornets.
On this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta takes you through the Hornets' offensive struggles, should Clifford be brought back, and LaMelo remains out.
The Charlotte Hornets won in Utah for the first time since 2006 behind Grant Williams, Miles Bridges, and Co. Our host Joshua Balta takes you behind the key components that led to Charlotte's fourth straight win and what the upside (and downside) to LaMelo Ball returning to the newly, vastly improved Charlotte Hornets.
Our host Joshua Balta takes you through an episode of jubilation and excitement. The new look Hornets are 3-0 and head into the All-Star break generating buzz throughout the organization, city, and fanbase as a whole.
Mitch Kupchak is out. Micić, Grant Williams, and Tre Mann are in. The Charlotte Hornets are up!
The NBA Trade Deadline has come and gone, and the Charlotte Hornets look different. Gordon Hayward and PJ Washington were dealt ending an underwhelming era of Charlotte Hornets Basketball. Darian Thomas from The Lead joins our host Joshua Balta to discuss trade details from the day, Miles Bridges, James Bouknight and more.
The Charlotte Hornets fell by twenty to the Knicks, Steve Clifford got thrown out, and players were seen laughing on the bench in the midst of it all. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes a look back on LaMelo's basketball journey prior to being drafted by Charlotte and asks the question: Is it unfair of us to ask him to become a great leader?
Corban Ford of Sports Ethos, Swish Theory, and The Lead joins our host, Joshua Balta, in a crossover episode of Hive Hoops to discuss the trade between the Charlotte Hornets and the Miami Heat that sent Terry Rozier to South Beach in return for Kyle Lowry and a 2027 1st round draft pick.
Karl Anthony-Towns scored 62 points against Charlotte, but it did not matter. The Hornets won 128-125 in a crazy, comeback win. Our host Joshua Balta details the improbable victory on this episode of Hive Hoops!
On this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta takes you behind Charlotte's 124-120 win over a Wemby-less San Antonio squad. A win is great. Take them how you can get them this season. But what did Friday night's close win really demonstrate about the makeup of this Hornets team? You can find out right here at Hive Hoops!
The Charlotte Hornets are 8-30. It all sucks. With Mitch Kupchak heading out the door soon, do you still want him making moves at the deadline? Do you really want another ownership group in the city to play a large part of the daily operations of a Charlotte sports franchise? Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you through the latest murmurings involving the Charlotte Hornets on this episode of Hive Hoops.
Joshua Balta returns to provide his latest takes on the 8-29 Charlotte Hornets. Trade LaMelo? Keep Terry Rozier? Our host provides his thoughts as to what the Charlotte Hornets should be doing as the trade deadline approaches.
Steve Clifford went on a post-game rant on the Hornets' defensive deficiencies following Charlotte's winnable-loss against Minnesota on Saturday night. Yet blame deserves to go all-around the organization: from players to the GM and the coaching staff as well. On this episode, our host Joshua Balta takes you into the Hornets' issues that extend well-beyond a post-game rant.
W.B. Whitted hosts the latest episode of Hive Hoops by stepping in for Joshua Balta. Is it already time to be looking at 2024 Draft Prospects following LaMelo Ball's latest injury?? W.B. says pump the brakes on that. Find out why he's still clinging to a small hope on this episode of Hive Hoops!
Darian Thomas from The Lead: Hornets Lead and Bleav Podcast Network fills in for our host Joshua Balta on the latest episode of Hive Hoops. Darian breaks down the key reasons as to how the Charlotte Hornets overcame Jayson Tatum, the Boston Celtics on League Pass on a Monday. Darian talks about how the Hornets must win tonight against the Wizards.
The Hornets split the weekend against the Wizards and Knicks, moved to 1-0 in the In-season Tournament, lost Brandon Miller to an ankle injury, more defensive issues, and Miles Bridges is set to return this week. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes listeners through the weekend happenings surrounding the Hornets and what he believes will happen with Miles Bridges' court appearance.
At all levels of the organization: ownership, front office, coaches, and players they have told us they expect to compete for a playoff spot. Right now they are competing for the #1 overall pick. Rant by our host Joshua Balta on this episode.
LaMelo Ball clamped up Tyrese Haliburton on Saturday night to win the game for the Charlotte Hornets, and then followed it up with a 30 point, 10 rebound, 13 assist triple-double on Sunday night in a contest against the Dallas Mavericks that saw Charlotte come up just short. Joshua Balta highlights key takeaways from a weekend that might have gotten the Hornets' young star back on track and what that means headed forward.
The Charlotte Hornets fall to 1-3 on the season. Out host Joshua Balta gives his thoughts on the disappointing start for the Hornets.
The Charlotte Hornets fall to 1-1 on the season after getting bullied, other than Brandon Miller and PJ Washington, against the Detroit Pistons. Our host Joshua Balta gives his thoughts on the bad and the good (but mostly bad) from Friday night's contest.
Joshua Balta goes up and down the roster showering praise on an impressive win on opening night against the rival Atlanta Hawks. Charlotte, you have a center. Charlotte, you have a rookie. Charlotte, you did not overpay PJ Washington. And much more.
Dylan Jackson joins our host Joshua Balta to provide their season predictions for the Charlotte Hornets.
Brandon Miller advanced? Gordon and Terry as leaders? LaMelo improving defensively? Are the overall vibes coming out of the Spectrum Center for real? Darian Thomas from The Lead and the Bleav Podcast Network joins our host Joshua Balta to provide what to buy and what to sell coming out of the Hornets organization.
Steve Clifford, LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, Miles Bridges, PJ Washington, your mama, and even Hugo had rave reviews on Brandon Miller. Get excited everyone! But wait. Our host Joshua Balta tells you why we need to pump the brakes a bit and still practice reserve on the BMill hype.
W.B. Whitted joins our host Joshua Balta in a content heavy episode of Hive Hoops! Thoughts on Kai Jones being away from the team indefinitely, Cody Martin still limited, two guard signings in Sumner/Maledon, and season predictions can all be found right here on this episode!
On this episode, Joshua Balta provides his takes on whether or not the Charlotte Hornets should pursue Tyler Herro in a trade.
Talking Kai Jones' latest social media appearances and the overall culture within the Charlotte Hornets franchise.
Corban Ford from Swish Theory, Sports Ethos, and The Lead joins Joshua Balta to argue whether or not Hayward or Rozier (or both) should come off of the bench for the Hornets. The conversation switches at the 37 minute mark, and the guys give their predictions on how the 2028 All-NBA Teams will look like. Two Hornets are included during this segment 👀
Ben from Hornets Twitter (X) joins our host Joshua Balta to discuss the big news from the past week for the Charlotte Hornets. PJ Washington signs a 3 yr/48M deal to return to Charlotte. How should the Hornets rotation look now with PJ back in the fold? Which of McGowens, Thor, Jones, and Bouknight still have a shot at receiving minutes? LaMelo the 84th best player in the league??? All of this and more right here at Hive Hoops!
Baron Davis joined LaMelo Ball to debut the return of the 1997-2002 throwback pinstripe jerseys. Seeing BD back in the QC came with all of the feels and nostalgia that made many of us Hornets fans. Our host Joshua Balta takes us back through memories of many of the Hornets greats. More PJ and schedule talk right here at HH as well!
The 2023-2024 Charlotte Hornets schedule released on Thursday and so has our host's initial takeaways after reviewing back-to-backs, home stands west coast trips, home-openers, season finales, and more! Check it out right here at Hive Hoops!
Karter Baughan joins our host, Joshua Balta, on this episode to talk about the first two signings under the new ownership group in Frank Ntilikina and R.J. Hunter. Speaking of new ownership, what is the current climate around the team, and are we excited for what is to come or should fans be cautious due to some of Plotkin and Schnall's recent comments?? This and more right here on Hive Hoops.
Patrick Simon of Hornets Lead joins our host Joshua Balta to grade Charlotte's off-season to date, and what it can improve to if certain moves are made. We are in the final days of a Michael Jordan majority-owned Charlotte Hornets team. Our guest has some final remarks for MJ.
Joshua Balta is back from a mini-vacay and ready to tell you how much he hates the month of August due to the inaction across the NBA. Speaking of inaction, have we been placing blame on Kupchak when quite possibly the new majority-ownership might be behind it? This and more right here on this episode of Hive Hoops!
On this episode, Joshua Balta briefly touches on the vote that passed meaning that the Charlotte Hornets will officially have new majority-owners in Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall. He then provides his rankings of what the Hornets' off-season must-do's should be.
Patrick Simon of Hornets Lead joins our host Joshua Balta to give his thoughts on Summer League. Our host presents his takeaways from the two press conferences from this week involving Miles Bridges, LaMelo Ball, and Mitch Kupchak.
Patrick Simon of Hornets Lead joins our host Joshua Balta in this two part series detailing the news from the weekend that the Charlotte Hornets have not approached the 16 million dollar mark per year for PJ Washington. In addition, The Charlotte Hornets did indeed offer guard Dennis Smith Jr., yet DSJ chose Brooklyn over Charlotte. The two Hornets Lead contributors give their takes on what this means for the Hornets and their roster construction for what has proved to be another slow-moving off-season for the front office in the Queen City.
Terry Magnum of Buzz Boys joins our host, Joshua Balta, to overview Summer League and give their biggest takeaways and lowest of the lows. Talks turn to the outlook of the season and where our host and guest see the rotation as it stands today.
Brandon Miller and Nick Smith Jr. put on a show Tuesday night in what was an eventual loss to the Scoot-less Portland TrailBlazers during the NBA2K24 Summer League. Our host, Joshua Balta highlights, and lowlights, the performances from SL and gives his thoughts on what seems to be PJ Washington signing the Qualifying Offer in Charlotte, and why that might not be the best route for PJ.
What a busy week for the Charlotte Hornets! LaMelo Ball signed his extension, Miles Bridges is back on a 1 yr deal, PJ Washington or Grant Williams, and the Hornets Summer League team debuts (unfortunately). Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you through the latest happenings of Free Agency and Summer League on this episode of Hive Hoops!
NBA Free Agency starts this week. It is believed that the Charlotte Hornets will bring back PJ Washington and Miles Bridges (although MItch Kupchak did make some interesting comments). Our host, Joshua Balta, lays out his three tiers of FA targets for the Charlotte Hornets, and recaps the draft from last Thursday.
Brandon Miller was the selection over Scoot Henderson for the Charlotte Hornets at two. Sigh. We recap our thoughts, emotions, concerns, pain on the night. Sam Dracula joins our host, Joshua Balta, to further recap the night and what Charlotte's next steps are as free agency nears.
Jamaal and Keyza from Under Construction stop by to join our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss MJ's sale and what their thoughts are on "why now?" Should Hornets fans be worried about the direction of the team during the sale with so many moving pieces? All of that and more here on this episode of Hive Hoops!
Adrian Wojnarowski broke news early Friday morning that Charlotte Hornets majority owner, Michael Jordan, has agreed to sell his majority-stake to a group led by current Hornets minority owner Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall. Our host, Joshua Balta, provides his initial thoughts to the news and what it means for the Charlotte Hornets' off-season and future.
Rel Myers from the Pels and Whistles Podcast and Pelicans Lead joins our host, Joshua Balta, to explore possible trade ideas between Charlotte and New Orleans. The two talk through various scenarios and either accept or decline the deals based on the packages.
On this episode, our host Joshua Balta explores Shams' breaking news yesterday that the New Orleans Pelicans want to aggressively pursue acquiring the #2 or #3 overall selection in the 2023 NBA Draft in order to select Scoot Henderson, and what all of this could mean for the Charlotte Hornets.
Matt Powers, Editor of The Swish Theory, joins our host Joshua Balta to give his position on Scoot vs. Miller. Miller's biggest concerns are highlighted by our guest, as well as where he would have the current 2023 draft prospects ranked against recent top prospects from drafts prior. Matt provides us with his late 1st round/early 2nd round steals, and who fits the Hornets best from those candidates.
Our host, Joshua Balta, takes the top three selections from the 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 drafts and ranks them according to his pre-draft grade on each player. Using zero NBA-playing evidence, Balta attempts to provide his pre-draft grade on each player and where he would have them ranked if they were all a part of the same draft. There are some BIG misses, and then there are some BIG hits. Join in all of the fun on this episode and see where Scoot Henderson, Brandon Miller, LaMelo Ball, and more would rank according to our host!
Dylan Jackson, a mainstay in the Hornets community, joins Balta to discuss if the Hornets should entertain any offers to move out of the number two overall selection in the 2023 NBA Draft. We had to get Dylan's opinion on the the debate that everyone is talking about should the Hornets stay pat at #2: Scoot or Miller. What should Charlotte do with the remaining picks in the draft (package and move up, trade for a current player, trade for future assets, etc.) fills in at our middle segment, and then the episode finishes with a highly-rated player that neither Dylan or Balta want the Hornets to draft.
Corban Ford from Swish Theory joins our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss the NBA Draft, just missing out on Wemby, Scoot versus Miller, Caleb Martin, and more!
It has been a week since the Charlotte Hornets missed out on the Wemby Sweepstakes. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you inside of his thoughts and emotions the morning after the NBA Draft Lottery and of the past week. He also brings up the question, "Will Scoot or Miller start for the Hornets?" His response may surprise you...
We were this close, Charlotte. The lottery gods chose to give Wemby rights to a five-time champion who possessed the likes of David Robinson and top-ten, all-time great Tim Duncan in the San Antonio Spurs. WTF. But it's not all bad. The Charlotte Hornets moved up to #2 in the upcoming NBA Draft and will likely be deciding between guard Scoot Henderson and forward Brandon Miller. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you through his wide-ranging emotions on this draft lottery reaction episode, and how the sting of missing out on the number one overall pick drained much of the elation that the prior twelve pick reveals had created within him. He was joined by Draft Lead's very own Darian Thomas. Darian explains how the lottery results are in fact great for the Hornets, and not to fret Charlotte. He details whom the Hornets should take at two and why. All of this and much more emotion can all be found right here on this episode of Hive Hoops!
IT'S NBA DRAFT LOTTERY WEEK!!!!!!!!!!!! We have been waiting for May 16th since late December as Hornets fans, and it has finally arrived! The future of the entire franchise could be altered by winning the lottery, yet the pain and suffering could equally continue as well. On this episode, our host Joshua Balta, details all of the possibilities that could unfold for Charlotte on lottery night by taking you pick through pick with the percentage odds of each possibility. Our official mini-Wemby prognostication makes an appearance, as well as what Charlotte may do on draft night should they not win the Victor sweepstakes. The episode concludes with Balta's takes on the current coaches available around the league, and how Charlotte will regret not pursuing should that play out.
Ben Hollifield joins the pod to tell all listeners why Dillon Brooks must be a Charlotte Hornet. He, along with our host Joshua Balta, dream about the idea of adding Jrue Holiday to the roster (not going to happen, but it was fun anyway). Free agent talks ensue with Ben providing his desired top-five free agent targets, and Balta providing a sneak peek into his own list. The episode ends with an "Executive of the Year" segment (or should we say "Not Executive of the Year" segment) that takes us back to last off-season (hell) and why GMs like Mitch Kupchak may be hesitant to pull the trigger on big trade deals.
Sam Dracula joins our host, Joshua Balta, in order to give his takes on the last two weeks of the Hornets' off-season following the conclusion of the 2022-2023 season.
Miles Bridges has been suspended by the NBA. Well, sort of. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you through the NBA's decision, what it means for the Hornets, and Bridges himself. Balta looks back on Kupchak's remarks on Bridges from just last week and how that will play into the decision-making process for Charlotte. Personal thoughts on the possible return of Bridges is offered as well, and ultimately what kind of interest/contract will Bridges receive. All of this and more right here at Hive Hoops!
GM of the Charlotte Hornets, Mitch Kupchak, gave his media availability on Tuesday following the 27-55 season that was. There were some comments to concerned about, and others not to be concerned about. Additional comments should have you excited, meanwhile others should have you down right PISSED (Miles Bridges saga). All of that is broken down right here on Hive Hoops!
Jerry Donation from ClutchPoints joins our host Joshua Balta to discuss the biggest takeaways from the team's exit interviews. Segments on LaMelo Ball, Steve Clifford, PJ Washington, rapid fire on who should be back in Charlotte next season, and more can be found right here at Hive Hoops!
This season was hellacious. And it's over. Yet Balta has hope, and in this episode he details why headed into the off-season.
The Greensboro Hornets are back! Our host Joshua Balta breaks down the latest performances from James Bouknight, Kai Jones, and the rest of the young Hornets. New CBA Deal. What does it mean for the Charlotte Hornets?
The Charlotte Hornets de-saddled the Dallas Mavericks in back-to-back contests over the weekend severely affecting the Mavs' chances at the post-season while providing a shot to the arm for the Hornets' fanbase down the stretch of the season. Dennis Smith Jr. had big time performances against his former team, and has been playing well for the Hornets all season long. Should DSJ be brought back to Charlotte next season although he is shooting 21% from three? Our host Joshua Balta dives into this, JT Thor's recent play, and the center rotation carousel that the Hornets will deploy in the final 6 games of the campaign.
Evan Kent from The Crown Club joins our host, Joshua Balta, to provide his thoughts on the possible sale of the Charlotte Hornets by Michael Jordan. New information has surfaced since the reports originally released. Balta and Evan give their takes on why they believe a sale may, or may not, occur. Nick Richards received a 3 yr/15M extension. Was this a good move? In addition, the roster continues to fill out heading into the off-season/next season. Does this bode well for coach Steve Clifford, and should he return next season?
Swarm and Sting's B.W. Whitted joined our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss the biggest topic surrounding the Charlotte Hornets at the moment...Michael Jordan possibly selling his majority stake in the organization. The two go in depth on the topic dissecting Jordan's tenure in Charlotte from a basketball standpoint, community level, and even to what it would mean to the league as a whole if MJ were to sell the team. In addition, B.W. recently wrote an article that was inspired by a Hornets fan who has started a petition to have Gerald Wallace's jersey retired in Charlotte. B.W. provides reasons as to why he believes Crash's number should be in the rafters at the Spectrum Center. The discussion gives way to an over-arching question of, "Which Charlotte players' jerseys should be retired?"
Darian Thomas from The Lead, Trust The Buzz, and Bleav in Hornets joins our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss players from the NCAA Tournament who should be on Charlotte's radar in the upcoming 2023 NBA Draft.
Hive Hoops is back this week with your host Joshua Balta. The Hornets are 7-3 in their last 10 games and one of the top defensive teams since the NBA Trade Deadline. Balta details some of the reasons that the Hornets have been trending upwards as of late. Kelly Oubre and Dennis Smith Jr. are healthy and playing like it recently for Charlotte. Should they return next season in the Queen City? All of this and more right here at Hive Hoops!
LaMelo Ball is out for the season, and had successful surgery to repair a fractured ankle on Wednesday. Our host, Joshua Balta, details what his main concerns are for the LaMelo-less Hornets down the final stretch. Charlotte's five game winning streak came to an unsurprising end Wednesday night as Kevin Durant made his return to play donning a Phoenix jersey for the first time since his trade to the Suns. A brief recap of the game leads to some positive takeaways for a certain Hornets rookie. Do the Hornets have a legit shot at a bottom three record now? Find out here at Hive Hoops!
LaMelo Ball and Mark Williams headline this latest rendition of Hive Hoops starring guest, Sam Dracula. And how could they not? LaMelo Ball is playing the best basketball of the season alongside his new shiny toy in rookie big, Mark Williams, who dropped in 18 points and TWENTY rebounds against Bam Adebayo and the Miami Heat. The performance helped propel the Charlotte Hornets to their fourth consecutive win ushering in a wisp of hope into a fanbase that has been rather lifeless dating back to the summer of 2022. Our host, Joshua Balta, and Sam dive into what they are seeing that has them excited again about the Charlotte Hornets. Does Mitch Kupchak deserve apologies from the fanbase in their critiques of roster construction, draft day trades, and general overall handling of the franchise? Bryce McGowens received a 4 yr/7M contract. How big is this for Charlotte? What does this mean for James Bouknight? And we actually did go over an hour! Longest episode in Hive Hoops history!
The Charlotte Hornets' final 22 game stretch begins tonight with a matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves meaning that we get a showdown between the cream of the crop of the 2020 NBA Draft in LaMelo Ball and Anthony Edwards. Our host, Joshua Balta, breaks down previous matchups between the two budding stars while discussing the effects of the looming return of Kelly Oubre on the likes of Bryce McGowens and JT Thor. Cody Martin continues to be sidelined with knee soreness and the worries are rising. Balta voices his concerns surrounding the most recent Hornet who received an extension.
The Charlotte Hornets are 17-43 with 22 games remaining. The playoffs have been off the table since December and the NBA lottery results are the next date circled on most Hornets' fans calendar yet our host, Joshua Balta, provides multiple reasons as to why this final stretch is important and why/what you should watch for. A micro-segment of "Host and Hoist" details the best moments in Charlotte Hornets All-Star Weekend history, and then the episode ends with a recap of this past All-Star weekend.
The Charlotte Hornets beat the Atlanta Hawks for the third time this season, and if it weren't for what happened last April in State Farm Arena, it would be safe to say that the Hornets own the Hawks, but alas... Connor Sparrow from the KarterKast Podcast joined our host, Joshua Balta, on the show to talk about Charlotte's sixteenth win, LaMelo's 30 minutes to Atlanta comment hahahaha, and an all out balanced performance from the guys in Purple and Teal. After a weekend to sit and assess, Balta and Connor attempt to provide a more measured reaction to the Hornets' trade deadline moves. Mitch Kupchak's media availability comments are put under the scope, and where is the direction from here for the Hornets. All of this and more can be found right here at Hive Hoops!
The NBA Trade Deadline has passed and the Charlotte Hornets made two moves: Jalen McDaniels is off to Philly in exchange for Svi (it's just Svi) and two 2nd round picks, meanwhile Mason Plumlee was traded to the Clippers for Reggie Jackson and a 2028 2nd round pick. On this episode, our host Joshua Balta and special guest Matt Sponhour from Stay Hot: A Sports Podcast give their thoughts on the Hornets' trade deadline. How did the Hornets front office do? What grade do they receive? Who did you want to see get moved, yet ultimately did not? Did the Lakers deal and the Nets/Suns deal ultimately impact some of the additional moves that were out there for Charlotte? What does this mean going forward? Find all of this out right here at Hive Hoops!
Dan Favale of Bleacher Report and the Hardwood Knocks Podcast joined our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss the current state of the Hornets as well as Dan's most recent piece for B/R that is a comprehensive look at the NBA Trade Deadline. Charlotte showed up four times in Favale's article. On this episode, Balta and Dan discuss these trade proposals and why they make sense for the guys in Purple and Teal. As in any piece, cuts must be made. Dan shares some of the trade concepts he had cooked up that included the Hornets that couldn't quite make the final draft. It's all Hornets Trade Deadline talk on this episode of Hive Hoops!
Darian Thomas from Trust the Buzz and NBA Draft Nerds joins our host Joshua Balta on the show to recap the loss in Milwaukee, will the Hornets be "too good" down the stretch, trade deadline musts, and LaMelo Ball's franchise record. Is P.J. Washington a vital piece to the future of this team? Is LaMelo's franchise record of eight triple doubles an indictment on this franchise's history? Who would you rather have moving forward: Cody Martin or Jalen McDaniels? All of this and more can be heard right here at Hive Hoops!
Ben Hollifield, more commonly known as @benhuncc on Twitter and former guest of "The 11th Pick Podcast," joined the show to discuss where the Hornets are nearly 50 games into the season, are injuries mostly to blame for Charlotte's woes, was Gordon Hayward's deal actually a good thing for this team, and finishing up with a segment called "Trade or Fade" where our host Joshua Balta grades Ben's recent Trade Machine ideas for the Hornets.
The Hornets slip back to their losing ways falling 120-102 in Utah. The Hornets went 2/16 from deep and that pretty much summed up the night for the guys in Purple and Teal. Rui Hachimura was dealt to the Lakers for Kendrick Nunn and three 2nd round picks. Our host Joshua Balta discusses the impact that the deal may have on setting the market, and what that could mean for a few Hornets players should the franchise choose to move on. The episode finishes with a LaMelo Ball health update via Steve Clifford in the post-game presser, and a plead from our host to please not rush back the Hornets' All-Star.
Hornets win!!!!!! But, it came at a cost. Of course it came at a cost. LaMelo Ball suffered yet another sprained ankle in the win over the Houston Rockets in the battle for last place. Our host Joshua Balta takes you through his thoughts on whether or not LaMelo should return this season, the medical staff's role in the hyper-injuries this season, Mark Williams' performance that hasn't been replicated in FOUR DECADES, coach Steve Clifford's franchise setting win total, and Clifford's comments from earlier in the week in regards to earning playing time versus being given playing time.
Karter Baughan joins the show for his second appearance alongside our host Joshua Balta to discuss the 11-31 Hornets, can LaMelo Ball be a number one option on a winning team, number two option even? Balta and Karter talk about the two dookies, we mean dukies, on the Hornets and their recent uptick in play and production in Mason Plumlee and Mark Williams. The episode closes with a Rapid Fire (not really) edition of Trade Deadline talk. Who should still be rostered come February 10th, and what will be the reaction if the Hornets/Mitch Kupchak have a quiet trade deadline?
The Hornets allowed Ja Morant to bleed 26 seconds off the clock before touching the ball, and that pretty much sums up the Charlotte Hornets' performance against the Memphis Grizzlies. The team looks pathetic, not focused, and completely out on competing this season. Our host, Joshua Balta, discusses his concerns of the players on this roster, their "winning-DNA (or lack thereof)" and if there are any current Hornets who will actively bring winning basketball to the city of Charlotte.
Hive Hoops is back with the first episode of the New Year. The Charlotte Hornets are 10-28 and our host Joshua Balta is RANTING. Following poor performances against the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers, as well as poor individual performances from some of the team's biggest names: LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, Gordon Hayward; the season is all but over which has this Hornets team looking ahead to brighter days. LaMelo's defensive performances are called into question, Terry's inconsistency and sporadic play, and a Gordon Batum segment have all of the fiery pieces that can hopefully help you and your frustration with this team.
Jamal Darby and Keyza Soulsay from Under Construction join the show to talk LaMelo Ball's return, what it has done for this team, worried about his fouling tendency, and does Ball have enough time to make a case for his second All-Star bid?? Cody Martin and Dennis Smith Jr. remain out and the guys discuss their importance to this team, and just how badly does Charlotte miss the two defensive-minded guards. The episode closes with a Rankings Segment: Charlotte Hornets Edition!
The Charlotte Hornets are 7-23 thirty games into the season, riding an 8 game losing streak and just lost to a Detroit Pistons team led by Kylian Hayes, Alec Burks, and Jalen Duren (Yes, THAT Jalen Duren). LaMelo Ball returned hoping to inject a boost into this team, yet despite averaging 27 points and nearly 7 assists since re-insertion this team is 0-3 and giving off zero vibes that they will turn this season around anytime soon. It is time for Charlotte to capitalize on its assets of value in Terry Rozier and Kelly Oubre and center their focus on 2023-2024. There is no reason to wait at this juncture of the season. Move the ones who hold value and play the kids.
Hive Hoops welcomes Karter Baughan of the KarterKast Podcast to the latest episode! Balta and Karter team up to discuss the only direction the Hornets should be going in this season, how that affects LaMelo Ball's outlook for this season, selling all James Bouknight stock?, and a Hornets edition of OVER/UNDER.
The Charlotte Hornets dropped two close contests this week against two contenders in the Clippers and the Nets. Too much Kawhi Leonard late against the Clippers, and then the same with Kevin Durant against the Nets cost the Hornets two games in which the injury-laden team battled and fought, yet to no avail. The Hornets could not grab that final board versus LA, and then had to rely on JT Thor and Bryce McGowens late against Brooklyn. Our host Joshua Balta dives into his thoughts following both losses, as well as detailing the increasing gap between Bryce McGowens and James Bouknight. The episode wraps up with a discussion on Nick Richards' minutes decrease and a segment of "What could have been..."
Hive Hoops was joined by Evan Birchmore of "Swarm and Sting" as the first guest in Hive Hoops history! Balta and Evan discuss their early season assessments of the season. To what degree can this team be judged based on their performance to date? Does Coach Steve Clifford deserve blame? Terry Rozier? Or does it rest more so on the organization as a whole? Find out here and more on the latest episode of Hive Hoops!
The Hornets just won two games against the Philadelphia 76ers and the Minnesota Timberwolves to finish off last week yet instead of talking about Kelly Oubre's performance, the Mint City edition jerseys and court, or Kai Jones' emergence we have a medical staff (and perhaps coaching as well) issue in the Queen City. Our host Joshua Balta details the events of Robyn Hayward's social media post as well as the responses from the Charlotte Hornets, Gordon's agent, and then Robyn again. Could all of this been started with a new team destination in mind?? We have it here at Hive Hoops!
The Charlotte Hornets dropped two more games over the weekend in which they held the lead in the 4th quarter or overtime. That brings the Hornets to 4-14 on the year and the question of whether or not it is time to start cranking up the trade chatter. Joshua Balta details who on the Hornets is trending up and who is trending down on the trade market as well as the young rookies from the 2021 Draft Class.
The Charlotte Hornets dropped yet another game in which they led, losing to the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night 125-113. LaMelo Ball led the team with 26 points and 6 assists on 10/17 shooting, yet left the game late after re-injuring his ankle. The Hornets are now 4-12, have lost nine of their last ten, are 1-6 at home this season, and have lost six games in which they have held the lead in the 4th quarter. With LaMelo Ball staring at missing extended time, the same with Cody Martin, who knows with Gordon Hayward, and even DSJ and Mark Williams missing time, the Hornets outlook is bleak. The tank is coming regardless if these were the intentions of this organization or not. It cannot be avoided. The Hornets don't actively have to pursue it, it is pursuing them.
The Charlotte Hornets are no longer on a losing streak! The 8 game slide is a thing of the past! The Hornets won 112-105 over the Orlando Magic on Monday night to start a new streak, one that has the Hornets in the win column. Seven players scored in double figures, LaMelo Ball flirted with a double-double, and Mason Plumlee led the team in scoring. Our host Joshua Balta breakdown individual performances as well as a few players who saw a reduction in their role (cough cough: JT Thor and James Bouknight). This isn't season-changing, yet a win is a win. Enjoy this one Hornets fans.
The Charlotte Hornets welcomed back their All-Star in LaMelo Ball, yet his placement into the lineup wasn't quite enough to overcome the blistering Miami Heat shooting and backdoor cuts on Saturday night. Charlotte has lost 8 in a row now with a four game week coming up that includes games against Orlando, Indiana, and Washington. Our host Joshua Balta speaks on the importance of this week in regards to the outlook of the remainder of the season, and how a continued losing streak may even have him embracing the tank.
Episode 10 looks back at the first 11 games of the Hornets' season that has brought Charlotte's record to 3-8 to date. Yuck. The Hornets have been banged up and missing multiple players including LaMelo Ball, Gordon Hayward, Cody Martin, and even Terry Rozier for a stretch, yet the Hornets have had multiple 4th quarter leads despite these key players being out. Balta speaks to the frustration of these 4th quarter leads being blown and as to why that is happening and what the Hornets can do to begin closing out these winnable games. The stats tell the story.
Miles Bridges plead no contest on Thursday and the former Hornets forward is now under probation for the next three years including an extensive list of demands that must be met during this time. Balta gives his takes on the Miles Bridges' domestic violence case and where does the NBA, the Charlotte Hornets, and even Miles Bridges himself go from here?
The Charlotte Hornets lost to the Sacramento Kings on Halloween night after leading by 15 at the break. Gordon Hayward didn't score in the 2nd half, Kelly Oubre couldn't figure out screens, and the Hornets' turnovers plagued them as they move to 3-4. Our host, Balta, gives his top 5 halloween candy list, mentions a few bright spots, and goes in on the 120 million dollar man in Charlotte.
The Hornets finally win a game in overtime, and it comes against the reigning champions, the Golden State Warriors. Balta highlights key performances from the game as well as asking the question, is this the same team that Hornets fans have seen from previous years, or is there something different about this team that can place the Hornets over the hump?
The Charlotte Hornets got throttled in Orlando on Friday night to a previously winless Magic side who was missing five of their rotation players. Balta rec aps the lows and the lower lows of the game while asking more from PJ Washington, Kelly Oubre, and more. Our host also mini-previews the short turnaround for Saturday's game at The Hive against Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors. Kenny Atkinson is in Charlotte and Balta speaks on the situation of the former but not-former Hornets Head Coach.
The Charlotte Hornets lost in heartbreaking fashion on Wednesday in MSG against the New York Knicks. Balta details the importance of these early games on the schedule as well as the three that turned two. Balta has the boys in Purple and Teal on upset alert against the Orlando Magic in their next game on Friday and how a win here could be a sign of things to come in Charlotte.
Tank shmank. The Charlotte Hornets just went to the ATL and took down a fully-loaded Hawks team while the boys in Purple and Teal had to go to battle without their All-Star in LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier III, and Cody Martin. Big Nick Energy, DSJ, and the reincarnation of Kelly Oubre Jr. led the attack and defense for Charlotte leading them to a 2-1 start through the first week of the season! Let's Fly!
In his pre-game interview with Ashley ShahAhmadi, Mitch Kupchak blew Hornets fans' minds with the expectation that Charlotte will win more games this season than last. Also, Balta details as to why he doesn't believe that the loss of Miles Bridges will be as detrimental as many think.
In the post-game presser, Head Coach Steve Clifford called out the Charlotte Hornets for playing bad basketball after a 124-112 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on 10-21-2022. This is a welcomed sight in the Queen City that had gotten used to "we will watch the tape" and "growth" over the past few seasons.
This off-season/pre-season was hellacious to say the least. But, with the Hornets' first game of the season resulting in a 129-102 victory over the San Antonio Spurs, there was a bit of relief and joy in getting the season underway and off to a 1-0 start to put the off-season semi-behind us. Balta highlights the dominating win over the Spurs, briefly addresses some of the issues from the off-season that almost broke us, and finishes off on a high-note of hope moving forward! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review!