Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges delivered a highlight-reel dunk over Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze, electrifying the crowd and contributing to a decisive 124-97 win on January 22, 2026. The victory, sparked by LaMelo Ball’s return to the starting lineup, snapped a losing streak and boosted team morale amid a challenging season.
The game, played at the Kia Center in Orlando, saw the Hornets dominate from the outset, building a 35-20 lead in the first quarter and maintaining control throughout. Bridges’ dunk occurred in the third quarter, with the forward driving to the basket and posterizing Bitadze in a moment that quickly went viral on social media. Alongside Bridges’ 10 points and 8 rebounds, Brandon Miller led the team with 20 points, while LaMelo Ball added 16 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds in his first start after an injury absence.
For the Magic, Paolo Banchero scored 23 points, but the team struggled offensively, shooting only 42% from the field. The loss dropped Orlando to 23-20, while Charlotte improved to 17-28, though both teams remain in the lower half of the Eastern Conference standings. Bridges’ dunk was part of a broader offensive surge for the Hornets, who shot 54% overall and 47% from three-point range, with Collin Sexton contributing 19 points off the bench.
The dunk over Bitadze, known for his shot-blocking ability, underscored Bridges’ athleticism and aggression, key factors in Charlotte’s fast-paced attack. It also highlighted the Magic’s defensive lapses, as they allowed multiple high-flying plays. Game footage showed Bridges elevating over Bitadze for a powerful slam, drawing fouls and energizing his teammates, who rallied to extend the lead.
This performance marks a positive step for the Hornets, who have faced inconsistency and injuries this season. Ball’s return provided a much-needed boost in playmaking, facilitating plays like Bridges’ dunk and improving ball movement. Meanwhile, the Magic, missing key players like Franz Wagner, failed to match Charlotte’s intensity, leading to their second consecutive loss.
Looking ahead, the Hornets will aim to build on this win as they continue a road trip, while the Magic seek to regroup before their next matchup. Bridges’ highlight has already garnered attention across NBA circles, potentially boosting his profile as a dynamic scorer. The game also reinforced the importance of health and depth in the grueling NBA schedule.
In summary, Miles Bridges’ dunk was a defining moment in a convincing Hornets victory, showcasing individual brilliance within a team effort. As the season progresses, such performances could prove pivotal for Charlotte’s playoff aspirations, while Orlando must address defensive issues to stay competitive.
