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. Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets progressed in the NBA's play-in tournament with a thrilling 127-126 overtime victory against the Miami Heat. Deni Avdija starred for the Trail Blazers with 41 points, including a crucial three-pointer with 16.1 seconds left, as they secured the No 7 seed in the Western Conference and a first-round playoff matchup against the 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 after LaMelo Ball scored the winning layup with 4.7 seconds remaining in overtime.