Toronto Raptors Edge Charlotte Hornets with Buzzer-Beater

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina — Immanuel Quickley made a dramatic 3-point basket at the buzzer, leading the Toronto Raptors to a 97-96 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night. This thrilling finish took place at the Spectrum Center as both teams battled for supremacy.

Quickley’s game-winning shot came just left of the top of the arc, capping off a tense back-and-forth game. RJ Barrett was the standout for the Raptors, scoring 28 points, while Quickley contributed 21 points and Scottie Barnes added 17, with 15 coming in the first half.

The game was intensely competitive, with LaMelo Ball putting the Hornets ahead with a drive to the basket just 1.6 seconds before the final buzzer. Each team called a timeout before the Raptors made one last effort. Quickley’s buzzer-beater was the seventh successful three-pointer for Toronto during the game, as they attempted 34 shots from beyond the arc.

Collin Sexton led the Hornets with 22 points off the bench. Ball finished the game with 15 points, while Miles Bridges and Kon Knueppel scored 12 and 11 points, respectively. Charlotte struggled to find their rhythm, shooting only 39% from the field.

This was a significant win for the Raptors, who managed to avenge two previous losses to Charlotte this season. Despite their loss, the Hornets had an edge on the boards, outrebounding Toronto 50-42. However, the Hornets were hindered by 18 turnovers throughout the game.

In the second quarter, Charlotte went on a 16-5 run to establish a 38-30 lead, benefitting from shooting 10-for-21 on 3-point attempts. The Raptors, on the other hand, struggled early in the game, making only 2-of-19 attempts from long range in the first half.

The intense final moments highlighted the competitive spirit of both teams as they fought hard for the win. Toronto’s Collin Murray-Boyles was also a key figure, grabbing 15 rebounds. The Raptors showcased resilience, coming back from a 13-point deficit to secure the victory.