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

The Portland Trail Blazers have clinched a playoff spot after overcoming an 11-point deficit in the fourth quarter to defeat the Phoenix Suns 114-110. Deni Avdija scored 41 points, including a crucial three-pointer with 16.1 seconds remaining, to seal the win for the Trail Blazers. The Suns will now face the winner of the Los Angeles Clippers and Golden State Warriors matchup for a chance to secure the No 8 seed. In the Eastern Conference, the Charlotte Hornets have advanced in the play-in tournament with a thrilling 127-126 overtime victory over the Miami Heat. LaMelo Ball scored the winning layup with 4.7 seconds left, while Miles Bridges sealed the win with a block at the buzzer. The Hornets will next face the loser of the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic matchup. The Trail Blazers have earned the No 7 seed in the Western Conference playoffs and will face the No 2 seed San Antonio Spurs in the first round.