Trail Blazers Secure NBA Playoff Berth as Hornets Triumph Over Heat in Overtime Thriller

The Portland Trail Blazers have booked their spot in the playoffs with a dramatic comeback win against the Phoenix Suns, while the Charlotte Hornets advanced in the play-in tournament by edging out the Miami Heat in a nail-biting overtime contest. The Trail Blazers' victory, led by Deni Avdija's 41 points, secured them the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference, setting up a first-round matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. In the Eastern Conference, the Hornets will face the loser of the Philadelphia 76ers vs. Orlando Magic game after their overtime win, capped by LaMelo Ball's game-winning layup with 4.7 seconds left. The Hornets' victory was marked by a series of dramatic turns, including a comeback from a significant deficit and a controversial play involving Ball and Bam Adebayo, who exited the game due to injury. The 2026 NBA playoffs are set to begin on Sky Sports, with a packed schedule of live games, including the Trail Blazers vs. Spurs and the start of the Western Conference Finals from May 20.