The Charlotte Hornets defeated the visiting Sacramento Kings, 114-95, at Spectrum Center on Thursday.

A 43-25 second quarter really decided this game, as that allowed Charlotte to hold the lead for the entirety of the second half. In fact, the Hornets led by at least seven points for the final two quarters, as a 39-13 run at the end of the second quarter really decided this game. Getting to the free-throw line was the difference in the game, with Charlotte connecting on 25-of-29 and Sacramento hitting just 6-of-13. The Hornets also did a ton of damage down low, outscoring the Kings in the paint, 52-38. In addition, Charlotte's bench outscored Sacramento's bench, 60-42.

The Kings (23-22) were led by Buddy Hield as he amassed 24 points and two steals. De'Aaron Fox accrued 10 points, five rebounds and eight assists. Bogdan Bogdanovic led the bench with 17 points and two assists. Marvin Bagley also played well off the bench, collecting 15 points and eight boards.

The Hornets (21-23) were led by Kemba Walker, as he tallied 23 points, five rebounds and five assists. Marvin Williams totaled 10 points, five rebounds, two assists and three steals. Wily Hernangomez was huge off the bench, providing 11 points and 16 rebounds. Tony Parker, Miles Bridges and Michel Kidd-Gilchrist all reached double figures in scoring off the bench as well.

Both teams return to action on Saturday, with Sacramento traveling to face the struggling Detroit Pistons and Charlotte playing host to the Phoenix Suns.