The Charlotte Hornets vs Chicago Bulls Match Player Stats: Jan 3, 2026 Final Score highlight a strong comeback performance by the Hornets, who turned an early deficit into an impressive 112–99 road victory. This matchup featured standout individual efforts, a major third-quarter swing, and a dominant rebounding display that ultimately shaped the outcome.
In this detailed breakdown of Charlotte Hornets vs Chicago Bulls Match Player Stats, we analyze the final score, scoring breakdown, game leaders, and key moments that decided the contest. The Charlotte Hornets vs Chicago Bulls Match Player Stats clearly show how Charlotte responded after a difficult first half and controlled the game with better rebounding, improved defense, and timely shot-making in the second half.
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Match Overview
The Charlotte Hornets traveled to the United Center on January 3, 2026, and defeated the Chicago Bulls 112–99 in a game that completely changed after halftime. Chicago looked in control early and carried a 58–50 lead into the break, but Charlotte delivered a huge second-half response to flip the script.
The Hornets outscored the Bulls 32–17 in the third quarter and then maintained that momentum in the final period. While Chicago started the game with better rhythm, Charlotte’s rebounding edge, improved defensive pressure, and strong performances from Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller helped the visitors secure a much-needed win.
Game Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | Charlotte Hornets vs Chicago Bulls |
| Date | Saturday, January 3, 2026 |
| Time | 5:00 PM |
| Venue | United Center |
| Location | Chicago, Illinois |
| Attendance | 21,315 |
| Officials | Brian Forte, Natalie Sago, Jenna Reneau |
| Competition | NBA Regular Season |
Final Score
Scoring Breakdown
| Quarter | Hornets | Bulls |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 27 | 39 |
| Q2 | 23 | 19 |
| Q3 | 32 | 17 |
| Q4 | 30 | 24 |
Game Leaders
| Category | Player | Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Points | Miles Bridges | 26 |
| Rebounds | Miles Bridges | 14 |
| Assists | Nikola Vučević | 8 |
Game Analysis
The Bulls looked sharp in the opening half, especially in the first quarter where they scored 39 points and built momentum through efficient shot-making. Their offense flowed well, and they used early scoring bursts to put pressure on Charlotte’s defense. At halftime, Chicago had a solid eight-point lead and appeared to be in control.
ESPN game statsHowever, the game changed completely in the third quarter. Charlotte tightened up defensively, won the rebounding battle, and generated better offensive possessions. The Hornets’ ability to outscore the Bulls 32–17 in that period turned the entire matchup around. Once Charlotte gained confidence, the Bulls struggled to recover, and the Hornets carried that edge into the fourth quarter.
Turning Point
The turning point came in the third quarter, when the Hornets dominated both ends of the court and outscored the Bulls by 15 points. That stretch erased the halftime deficit and completely shifted the momentum.
Brandon Miller’s perimeter shooting played a major role during this phase, while Charlotte’s overall energy level on defense prevented Chicago from getting easy looks. The Bulls shot poorly in the quarter, and that one stretch changed the direction of the game.
Momentum Shift
Momentum initially belonged to Chicago after a strong first quarter, but Charlotte steadily stabilized the game before halftime. Once the Hornets found offensive rhythm in the third quarter, the momentum fully shifted in their favor.
The Bulls were unable to respond with the same intensity after that. Charlotte’s rebounding, transition pressure, and balanced scoring made it difficult for Chicago to regain control, and the game moved increasingly toward the visitors.
Clutch Moments
Charlotte’s decisive 10–0 run in the fourth quarter effectively sealed the result. That burst widened the gap and removed any realistic comeback opportunity for the Bulls.
During that late stretch, the Hornets executed calmly and took advantage of Chicago’s defensive mistakes. Brandon Miller’s fadeaway jumper helped cap the run, and from that point onward Charlotte remained firmly in control.
Advanced Game Analysis
One of the biggest differences in the Charlotte Hornets vs Chicago Bulls Match Player Stats was rebounding. Charlotte finished with 52 total rebounds compared to Chicago’s 43, which was especially important given the Hornets were playing with a depleted frontcourt. That extra work on the glass helped them control possessions and limit second opportunities for the Bulls.
Another major factor was the contrast between the first and second halves. Chicago had the better start, but Charlotte improved dramatically after halftime. The Hornets also handled the pace of the game better in critical stretches and used second-half defensive pressure to break Chicago’s rhythm. Their ability to win the paint battle late and execute in the half court gave them a significant advantage.
Player Efficiency Insights
Miles Bridges combined scoring and rebounding in an efficient and impactful performance, while Brandon Miller’s shooting was especially important in the comeback. LaMelo Ball added control and playmaking, helping the Hornets settle into a better offensive rhythm after a shaky start.
For the Bulls, Nikola Vučević was highly efficient and productive, but he did not receive enough consistent help after halftime. Matas Buzelis and Ayo Dosunmu had strong moments, yet Chicago’s supporting offense faded at the same time Charlotte’s intensity increased.
Charlotte Hornets Player Statistics
| Player | PTS | REB | AST |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miles Bridges | 26 | 14 | 1 |
| Brandon Miller | 22 | 6 | 4 |
| Kon Knueppel | 18 | 5 | 1 |
| LaMelo Ball | 17 | 6 | 7 |
| Collin Sexton | 13 | 2 | 3 |
| PJ Hall | 10 | 6 | 0 |
| Josh Green | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Sion James | 3 | 7 | 3 |
| Liam McNeeley | 0 | 3 | 1 |
| Pat Connaughton | DNP | — | — |
| Tre Mann | DNP | — | — |
| Antonio Reeves | DNP | — | — |
| Tidjane Salaün | DNP | — | — |
Chicago Bulls Player Statistics
| Player | PTS | REB | AST |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nikola Vučević | 28 | 7 | 8 |
| Matas Buzelis | 17 | 8 | 3 |
| Ayo Dosunmu | 16 | 4 | 4 |
| Tre Jones | 10 | 2 | 8 |
| Jalen Smith | 9 | 5 | 1 |
| Kevin Huerter | 9 | 11 | 7 |
| Dalen Terry | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Julian Phillips | 3 | 1 | 0 |
| Isaac Okoro | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Patrick Williams | 0 | 3 | 0 |
| Jevon Carter | DNP | — | — |
| Lachlan Olbrich | DNP | — | — |
Inactive Players
Charlotte Hornets: Mason Plumlee, KJ Simpson, Moussa Diabate, Ryan Kalkbrenner, Grant Williams
Chicago Bulls: Zach Collins, Coby White, Josh Giddey, Emanuel Miller, Trentyn Flowers, Noa Essengue
Advanced Game Insights
The Charlotte Hornets vs Chicago Bulls Match Player Stats clearly show how Charlotte overcame injury concerns and still controlled the game through hustle, rebounding, and second-half defense. Winning the rebounding battle by nine was especially important because it allowed the Hornets to survive periods where their half-court offense was less efficient.
For Chicago, the first half suggested they had enough offensive rhythm to win, but the second half exposed their inconsistency. Once their outside shooting cooled down and Charlotte started contesting better, the Bulls struggled to generate the same quality of looks. The shift in physicality strongly favored the Hornets.
Why Charlotte Hornets Won This Match
- Strong third-quarter comeback
- Better rebounding throughout the game
- Improved second-half defense
- Balanced scoring from multiple players
- Effective fourth-quarter execution
What Went Wrong for Chicago Bulls
- Poor third-quarter performance
- Offensive drop after halftime
- Lost rebounding battle 52–43
- Could not stop Charlotte’s late scoring runs
- Defensive rhythm broke down in key stretches
Injuries
Charlotte Hornets: Moussa Diabate (wrist), Ryan Kalkbrenner (elbow), Mason Plumlee (groin surgery), Grant Williams (knee surgery), Tidjane Salaün (ankle soreness)
Chicago Bulls: Josh Giddey (left hamstring), Coby White (right calf), and Jalen Smith was evaluated for a concussion after leaving during the third quarter.
Injuries affected both teams, but Charlotte handled its depleted frontcourt better than expected. Despite missing multiple interior players, the Hornets still won the rebounding battle and controlled key parts of the second half.
For Chicago, the absence of backcourt depth and the in-game loss of Jalen Smith made rotation management more difficult. As the contest progressed, those missing pieces became more noticeable.
Key Takeaways
- Charlotte’s third quarter changed the game
- Miles Bridges delivered a big all-around performance
- Brandon Miller’s shooting helped fuel the comeback
- Chicago started strong but faded badly after halftime
- Rebounding was one of the biggest deciding factors
Conclusion
The Charlotte Hornets vs Chicago Bulls Match Player Stats: Jan 3, 2026 Final Score clearly highlight a strong comeback victory for Charlotte. After trailing by double digits, the Hornets responded with a dominant third quarter, controlled the glass, and finished the game with much better execution.
Overall, the Charlotte Hornets vs Chicago Bulls Match Player Stats show how second-half defense, rebounding, and balanced scoring helped Charlotte secure a 112–99 road win over Chicago.
FAQs
Who won Charlotte Hornets vs Chicago Bulls on Jan 3, 2026?
The Charlotte Hornets won the game 112–99 after a strong second-half comeback.
Who was the top scorer in Hornets vs Bulls?
Miles Bridges led Charlotte with 26 points, while Nikola Vučević scored 28 for Chicago.
What was the turning point in Hornets vs Bulls?
The third quarter was the turning point, with Charlotte outscoring Chicago 32–17.
How did the Hornets beat the Bulls?
The Hornets won through rebounding, stronger second-half defense, and timely scoring from Bridges, Miller, and Ball.
How many rebounds did Miles Bridges have?
Miles Bridges finished with 14 rebounds for Charlotte.
Why did the Bulls lose to the Hornets?
Chicago lost because of a poor third quarter, weaker rebounding, and declining offensive efficiency after halftime.
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