Hornets’ 124-101 win over Grizzlies on March 21 reflected three-point edge and rebounding control

Charlotte pulls away after halftime to beat Memphis in 23-point home win

The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 124-101 on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, completing a decisive home performance built on efficient shooting and a clear advantage on the glass.

Charlotte led 59-47 at halftime and widened the gap in the third quarter, outscoring Memphis 38-28 to take firm control entering the final period. The Hornets finished with 124 points on 45-of-85 shooting (52.9%), while the Grizzlies shot 35-of-86 (40.7%).

Key statistical margins: shooting efficiency, three-pointers, and rebounds

The Hornets’ most direct scoring edge came from perimeter efficiency and volume. Charlotte made 18 three-pointers on 43 attempts (41.9%). Memphis also attempted heavily from deep (46 threes) but converted at a lower rate, hitting 16 (34.8%).

Rebounding was another defining factor. Charlotte collected 62 total rebounds to Memphis’ 42, including a 13-9 edge on the offensive glass. That additional possession count helped Charlotte sustain scoring runs and limit Memphis’ opportunities to close the deficit.

At the free-throw line, Charlotte left points available (16-of-24, 66.7%), while Memphis was more efficient (15-of-19, 78.9%). The difference, however, did not offset the larger gaps in shooting accuracy and rebounding.

• Final score: Hornets 124, Grizzlies 101
• Quarter-by-quarter: MEM 26-21-28-26 (101); CHA 30-29-38-27 (124)
• Field goals: MEM 40.7%; CHA 52.9%
• Three-pointers: MEM 16-of-46; CHA 18-of-43
• Rebounds: MEM 42; CHA 62

Ball’s scoring sets the tone as Charlotte wins the possession battle

LaMelo Ball led Charlotte with 29 points, fueled by seven made three-pointers (7-of-14) and a 9-of-19 shooting line overall. His outside shot-making helped Charlotte keep pressure on Memphis’ defense across multiple stretches, particularly as the Hornets expanded the lead after halftime.

Charlotte’s 38-point third quarter created separation, turning a 12-point halftime lead into a 22-point advantage entering the fourth.

What the result shows

In a game where both teams leaned heavily on three-point attempts, the outcome reflected which side paired perimeter scoring with consistent control of the rebounding battle. Charlotte’s combination of high overall field-goal efficiency and a 20-rebound advantage proved decisive, allowing the Hornets to convert extra possessions into points and manage the game comfortably over the final 18 minutes.

Memphis, meanwhile, faced a difficult path after falling behind early and being outpaced in the third quarter, with the shooting gap and rebounding deficit leaving limited room for a late turnaround.