Blazers Secure 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. Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets have progressed in the NBA's play-in tournament with a thrilling 127-126 overtime victory over the Miami Heat. The Trail Blazers' win guarantees them the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference, where they will face the No. 2 seed San Antonio Spurs in the first round. Deni Avdija played a crucial role in the Blazers' comeback, scoring 41 points, including a decisive three-pointer with 16.1 seconds remaining. The Hornets' victory was sealed with a layup by LaMelo Ball with 4.7 seconds left in overtime, following a closely contested match that saw the Heat's Bam Adebayo exit the game early due to injury. The 2026 NBA playoffs are set to begin on April 19, with four live games scheduled on Sky Sports Action.