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

The Portland Trail Blazers have clinched a playoff spot following a dramatic comeback win over the Phoenix Suns, while the Charlotte Hornets progressed in the NBA's play-in tournament with a thrilling overtime victory against the Miami Heat. The Trail Blazers' Deni Avdija scored 41 points, including a decisive three-pointer, to seal a 114-110 win and secure the No 7 seed in the Western Conference. The Hornets, meanwhile, edged the Heat 127-126 in overtime, with LaMelo Ball scoring the winning layup with 4.7 seconds remaining. The Blazers will face the San Antonio Spurs in the first round, while the Hornets will play the loser of the Philadelphia 76ers' meeting with the Orlando Magic. The 2026 NBA playoffs begin on Sky Sports this Sunday, April 19, with four live games scheduled.