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

The Portland Trail Blazers staged a comeback to defeat the Phoenix Suns, securing the No 7 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets outlasted the Miami Heat in overtime, progressing in the NBA's play-in tournament. The Blazers' victory, led by Deni Avdija's 41 points, marked a remarkable turnaround from an 11-point deficit in the fourth quarter. They will face the San Antonio Spurs in the first round. The Hornets, fueled by LaMelo Ball's 30 points, overcame the loss of Bam Adebayo to injury and edged the Heat 127-126. Ball's winning layup with 4.7 seconds left sealed the win, and the Hornets will next play the loser of the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic matchup.