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

The Portland Trail Blazers sealed their place in the playoffs with a dramatic comeback win against the Phoenix Suns, while the Charlotte Hornets edged the Miami Heat in overtime to advance in the NBA's play-in tournament. The Trail Blazers' victory, led by Deni Avdija's 41 points, secured them the No 7 seed in the Western Conference and a first-round matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. In the Eastern Conference, the Hornets' win set up a meeting with the loser of the Philadelphia 76ers' game against the Orlando Magic. LaMelo Ball scored the winning layup with 4.7 seconds left in overtime to give the Hornets a 127-126 victory. The 2026 NBA playoffs begin on Sky Sports this Sunday, with four live games scheduled.