Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images

The Charlotte Hornets continued their torrid run, extending their winning streak to eight games with a 109–99 victory over the Houston Rockets, who were playing on the second night of a back-to-back, on Thursday night.

Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images

Charlotte took control with a dominant second quarter after a tight opening frame that saw the Hornets hold just a three-point edge. Midway through the period, the Hornets erupted for a decisive 15–2 run over a three-minute stretch, creating separation and carrying a 12-point lead into halftime.

The Hornets stayed in command after the break, pushing the advantage to as many as 16 by the end of the third quarter. Houston waved the white flag early in the fourth, emptying the bench as Charlotte cruised to the win. The victory marked the Hornets’ longest winning streak since the franchise entered the 21st century.

Rookie standout Knueppel led Charlotte with 24 points, while LaMelo Ball added 20 points to power the balanced effort.

Photo by Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images

For Houston, Kevin Durant scored a game-high 31 points in the loss. Alperen Şengün struggled offensively, finishing with seven points on 3-of-11 shooting.

Photo by Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images

Up next, the Hornets head to Atlanta to face the Hawks on February 8, while the Rockets visit the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder on the same day.