Portland Trail Blazers Secure NBA Playoff Berth, Hornets Advance in Play-in Tournament

The Portland Trail Blazers have booked their spot in the playoffs with a thrilling comeback win over the Phoenix Suns, while the Charlotte Hornets progressed in the NBA's play-in tournament by edging out the Miami Heat in overtime. The Blazers' victory secured them the No 7 seed in the Western Conference, setting up a first-round matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. Deni Avdija starred for the Blazers, scoring 41 points, including a crucial three-pointer, to help his team overcome an 11-point deficit in the fourth quarter and win 114-110. In the Eastern Conference, the Hornets will face the loser of the Philadelphia 76ers vs Orlando Magic matchup after beating the Heat 127-126, with LaMelo Ball scoring the winning layup with 4.7 seconds remaining in overtime.