The Charlotte Hornets have agreed to a contract extension with head coach Charles Lee following a season wherein the franchise confirmed main enchancment and emerged as one of many league’s stronger groups after a gradual begin.
Though Charlotte in the end fell in need of reaching the playoffs after dropping within the play-in match, the group made important progress throughout Lee’s second season as head coach.
The Hornets improved by 25 wins in comparison with the earlier 12 months, persevering with the rebuilding course of beneath Lee’s management.
Lee initially joined Charlotte earlier than the 2024-25 season after serving as an assistant coach with the Atlanta Hawks, Milwaukee Bucks and Boston Celtics.
Hornets govt Jeff Peterson praised Lee for serving to set up the kind of tradition and construction the franchise desires transferring ahead.
“Charles has carried out an impressive job establishing a basis for who we wish to be as a crew,” Peterson stated.
“From day one, Charles and his employees have prioritized participant improvement, creating an atmosphere the place every of our gamers are dedicated to getting higher and proceed to enhance.
“He has constructed a team-first tradition rooted in accountability, onerous work and professionalism. I’m excited to maintain working carefully with Charles as we proceed to construct the Hornets for long-term success.”
Lee additionally expressed gratitude for the chance to proceed main the franchise and stated he believes the crew is transferring in the fitting course.
“I’m extremely grateful for the chance to proceed main this crew and constructing on what we’ve began right here in Charlotte,” Lee stated.
“I wish to thank Rick, Gabe and Jeff for his or her assist in addition to my teaching employees and the gamers for his or her tireless work and dedication.”
Lee added that he’s inspired by the progress the roster has proven and stays optimistic concerning the future.
“I’m excited concerning the course we’re headed and our crew’s vibrant future,” Lee stated.
“Our gamers have proven an actual dedication to development, and I’m happy with the tradition we’re establishing collectively. We’re simply getting began, and I’m trying ahead to the work forward.”
Charles Lee, Hornets Signal Contract Extension https://t.co/X46epNYM9W
— RealGM (@RealGM) Could 7, 2026