It’s fair to say the Charlotte Hornets haven’t experienced many glory days. However, with the new season underway, the current crop of stars will be hoping to buck the trend. In order to do so, they could potentially look at some of the team’s former heroes, many of whom played a key role in some memorable moments in the past.
For fans of the Hornets, these undisputed heroes gave them both hope and entertainment. After all, NBA fanatics want to watch the best players in full flow, leading the charge for their beloved franchise. These same players would probably be popular fantasy picks in the modern era, they’d feature in DraftKings Sportsbook NBA player props betting, and they’d be the topic of discussion on podcasts. Essentially, while the Hornets have never won an NBA Championship, there are still some talented former heroes who brought joy to fans.
So, with fans hoping to witness some new heroes emerge this season, below we take a brief look at a selection of top former Charlotte Hornets players, many of whom are still being discussed today.
Glen Rice
A player fans loved to watch, former professional Glen Rice was a key cog in the Hornets’ wheel between 1996 and 1998. The small forward averaged 23.6 points per game, with his shooting being his main strength. Rice didn’t just rise to the challenge when it came to registering points either, with his passion on the court also standing out as he continually led from the front. Overall, though, his ability to win games on his own from almost anywhere on the court made Glen Rice such a dangerous weapon to have.
Larry Johnson
Averaging 19.4 points and 9.2 rebounds per game, Larry Johnson was a small forward who influenced the outcome of numerous clashes. Turning out for the team for four years between 1992 and 1996, Johnson was also famous for his amazing dunks thanks to his explosive power. While the playoffs failed to materialize for Johnson and his teammates, it was never out of the question due to this world-class operator.
Jamal Mashburn
While there might be a debate to be had around Jamal Mashburn’s inclusion on the list, there’s no denying the former Hornet was an excellent basketball player. Between 2001 and 2004, Mashburn was a key figure in the team, playing four seasons and shining on numerous occasions. He averaged 21 points a game, while also offering six rebounds. Likewise, he was a consummate professional who clearly loved the sport of basketball, with his evident passion leading him to also make one All-Star appearance in 2003. Overall, Jamal Mashburn was a fantastic player.
Eddie Jones
When assessing some of the finest shooting guards Hornets fans have had the pleasurable of witnessing, Eddie Jones is right up there with the very best of them despite only playing for the team for a year and a half. During that time, Jones showcased his scoring exploits, his speed and agility, and his superb defensive game. Eddie Jones is a name many younger fans might not know about, but more senior Hornets supporters will be fully aware of his abilities on court.
Muggsy Bogues
For many more senior members of the Hornets community, Muggsy Bogues is a former player they’ll undoubtedly remember fondly. The point guard was an integral figure in the team between 1989 and 1998, with his fight for the cause shining through more than many of his teammates. While the statistics don’t always back up Muggsy Bogues’ immense ability, people who watched him know just how important he was to the team, particularly given his solid all-around game.
