Blazers Secure Playoff Spot as Hornets Advance in Thrilling Overtime Win

The Portland Trail Blazers have clinched a playoff spot after a remarkable comeback victory over the Phoenix Suns, while the Charlotte Hornets have advanced in the NBA's play-in tournament with a nail-biting overtime win against the Miami Heat. The Trail Blazers' win secured them the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference, setting up a first-round matchup against the No. 2 seed San Antonio Spurs. In the Eastern Conference, the Hornets will face the loser of the Philadelphia 76ers' meeting with the Orlando Magic in the play-in tournament. Deni Avdija scored 41 points, including a decisive three-pointer, as the Trail Blazers rallied from an 11-point deficit in the fourth quarter to defeat the Suns 114-110. The Suns will now play either the Los Angeles Clippers or Golden State Warriors for a final chance to secure the No. 8 seed. The Hornets, meanwhile, beat the Heat 127-126 in overtime, with LaMelo Ball scoring the winning layup with 4.7 seconds remaining. The Heat lost Bam Adebayo to injury early in the game, but rallied in the fourth quarter before the Hornets forced overtime. Ball apologized for his role in Adebayo's injury, which occurred when he appeared to trip the Heat's star, causing a lower back injury. The 2026 NBA playoffs will begin on Sky Sports this Sunday, with four live games, including the Trail Blazers' matchup against the Spurs.