Bucks blow big lead, lose opener in Charlotte 108-106 in OT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Kemba Walker made a 21-footer from the top of the key with five seconds left in overtime to lift Charlotte to a 108-106 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday night, providing a winning conclusion for fans celebrating the return of the Hornets name after a 12-year absence.

Walker finished with 26 points, including a tying 3-pointer with 1.6 seconds left in regulation as the Hornets erased a 24-point third-quarter deficit.

Marvin Williams had 19 points, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist scored 17 and Al Jefferson finished with 14 points and 10 rebounds for Charlotte. Lance Stephenson had seven points, 13 rebounds and eight assists in his Hornets debut.

The Bucks were led by Brandon Knight, who had 22 points and 13 assists.

Down 74-50, the Hornets battled back to send it to overtime after Khris Middleton missed 1 of 2 free throws in a late trip to the line, leading to Walker's big basket.