Locked On Hornets - Daily Podcast On The Charlotte Hornets

Locked On Hornets podcast is your daily ticket to stay ahead of the game and the first to know the latest news, analysis, and insider info for the Charlotte Hornets and the NBA. Walker Mehl from WFNZ and Doug Branson, a writer at EveryHornetsBoxscore.com, provide expert, local analysis and intelligent takes on the Charlotte Hornets. Locked On Hornets takes you beyond the scoreboard for the inside scoops on the biggest stories from within the Hornets locker room and all over the NBA. The Locked On Hornets podcast is part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

  1. How to REIGN IN LaMelo | What makes Charles Lee SPECIAL | Shannon Spake INTERVIEW

    1D AGO

    How to REIGN IN LaMelo | What makes Charles Lee SPECIAL | Shannon Spake INTERVIEW

    What makes a basketball season truly magical? On this episode of Locked On Hornets, sideline reporter Shannon Spake shares an all-access perspective on a transformative year for the Charlotte Hornets. The conversation begins with the team’s headline news: head coach Charles Lee’s contract extension. Hear firsthand why Lee’s culture-building and genuine focus on player development resonated so deeply with everyone inside the organization, from Jeff Peterson to the players themselves. Shannon reveals how her own preparation evolved—going beyond Hornets coverage to dig deeper into opponents, storylines, and the unique grind of NBA travel. Listen as she recounts candid, sometimes hilarious moments working with LaMelo Ball (including those infamous on-camera slip-ups!), and the challenges and rewards of interviewing young stars like Con Knueppel. This episode also brings nostalgia, as Shannon and the crew revisit the Charlotte Bobcats era, from the quirky CSET days to what it was like ushering in an entirely new team culture for the city’s faithful. Plus, hear about Pat Connaughton’s veteran presence in the locker room, how “the sickness” of Charlotte sports fandom bonds everyone, and why Michael Jordan still commands awe—on and off the court. With stories from the road, behind-the-scenes insights, and a dash of Charlotte culinary and geographic trivia, this special guest episode celebrates the past, present, and bright future of the Charlotte Hornets, both on the hardwood and beyond.    Watch Shannon's podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@sonsanddaughterspod Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    44 min
  2. Brandon Miller OUT INDEFINITELY with Surgery | Rookie Max Extension IN JEOPARDY? | Charles Lee PAID

    2D AGO

    Brandon Miller OUT INDEFINITELY with Surgery | Rookie Max Extension IN JEOPARDY? | Charles Lee PAID

    It’s a day of mixed emotions for Charlotte Hornets fans as two major headlines rock the franchise. Brandon Miller, the promising young guard, has undergone shoulder surgery to address instability that hampered his sophomore campaign—calling into question not only his summer preparation but also his timeline for a full return next season. With Miller’s contract extension window opening soon, the Hornets now have to weigh his status as a future cornerstone against his injury backdrop, potentially complicating what should have been a slam-dunk deal for their No. 2 overall pick. Meanwhile, the podcast celebrates some off-court stability, as head coach Charles Lee earns a well-deserved contract extension after leading the Hornets to a 25-win improvement and establishing a new team identity. Walker Mehl and Doug Branson consider what Lee’s continued leadership means for core players like LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel, Coby White, and the rest of the young Hornets. Listeners get an inside look at how the franchise might juggle Miller’s looming restricted free agency, Coby White's payday, and the lessons learned from past roster negotiations. Plus, there’s recognition for major predictions from the show’s New Year’s Eve episode—both the ups and the downs. Tune in for thoughtful analysis, real Hornets insight, and updates on crucial decisions that could define Charlotte’s next chapter. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    37 min
  3. 3D AGO

    NBA Stars the Hornets MUST AVOID | LaMelo and Moussa BACK in the Gym | 2026 Offseason Prep

    The NBA trade machine is already heating up, but for the first time in a long while, the Charlotte Hornets are in a position to be picky. We explore the new organizational identity established by Jeff Peterson and how it shifts the focus away from reclamation projects toward players with high-level work ethic and physicality. While the national media might try to link Charlotte to every available name, we sort through the star-studded list of players who simply do not fit the current roster's needs. From backcourt liabilities to effort concerns, we explain why names like Austin Reaves or Tyler Herro might not be the "darling" trades some expect. The conversation shifts to the coaching staff, where Charles Lee is already making waves across the league. We analyze his seventh-place finish in The Athletic’s anonymous player poll and what that level of respect means for future free-agent recruitment. To wrap things up, we check in on the summer grind. Moussa Diabate is turning heads with his explosive training sessions and a newly public goal to add a corner three-pointer to his arsenal. We also catch up with LaMelo Ball as he gets back on the court in California with his brothers. It is a packed episode centered on how the Queen City's culture is transforming from the front office down to the hardwood. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. DoorDash From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash. Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door. DoorDash. In your bag all season long. PrizePicks Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup. Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Quo Make this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away. Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba. Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist.  Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    37 min
  4. 4D AGO

    Charlotte Hornets PLAYOFF LESSONS| DEPTH MATTERS!! | Should Charlotte TRADE 4 or 5 FIRST RD PICKS?!?

    Walker Mehl goes solo to discuss all the playoff lessons learned from watching this postseason. How much does depth matter? Should the Hornets make a "Rudy Gobert" or "Mikal Bridges" type trade? Walker explains the differences in certain moves the Hornets could make. Finally, what are some of the elements Charlotte is missing that are beneficial to playoff teams?   Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets   Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA   Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com   Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM   Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise   Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history   📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH   For your next listen, check out the Locked On NBA podcast, where the season never ends providing national expertise with a local perspective. Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!   BetterHelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Rediscover your curiosity with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA today to get 10% off your first month.   eBay Motors From brakes to exhaust kits and beyond, eBay Motors has over 122 million parts to keep your ride-or-die alive. With all the parts you need at the prices you want, it’s easy to bring home that big win. Keep your ride-or-die alive at EbayMotors.com. Eligible items only. Exclusions apply. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.   FanDuel Now through September 22nd, ALL FanDuel customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get a THREE WEEK free trial of NFL Sunday Ticket from YouTube and YouTube TV. Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)   #Hornets #LaMelo #LaMeloBall #CharlotteHornets Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    32 min
  5. 5D AGO

    Charlotte Hornets BIG LEAP Candidates | Mock Draft Monday Picks | Why Charlotte is Talking Practice

    The Charlotte Hornets are transitioning from a resurgent season into a critical summer of development, and we are identifying which players are primed to take the most significant leap forward. While rookie sensation Kon Knueppel already shattered expectations by leading the league in three-pointers, the focus shifts to internal improvement from the core. We debate the potential of Coby White as a Sixth Man of the Year frontrunner and evaluate Brandon Miller’s path toward becoming a primary offensive engine. For Miller, a healthy offseason focused on strength and finishing in the restricted area could elevate him into the All-Star conversation. The show also features a Mock Draft Monday segment, where we analyze prospects for the 14th and 18th overall picks. We look at the high-end role player potential of Koa Peat and the high-ceiling project of Jayden Quaintance as potential additions to a frontcourt that desperately needs more physicality. Finally, we commemorate a major organization milestone: the "topping off" ceremony for the Novant Health Performance Center. With Rick Schnall and Charles Lee leading the charge, the franchise is fulfilling its promise to build a first-class environment for its players. From the 14-game sellout streak at the Spectrum Center to the construction of a state-of-the-art training home, the culture shift in the Queen City is officially complete. We look at why the "Killer Bees" era is just the starting point for a team ready to contend in the Eastern Conference. Read Rod Boone's coverage of the practice facility unveiling: https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/charlotte-hornets/article315584375.html Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon   KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.   DoorDashFrom tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.DoorDash. In your bag all season long.   RedditReddit is where the real fans hang out. Download the Reddit app and dive into your favorite team for hot takes, fresh memes, and the group chat that never sleeps. QuoMake this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba. Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp.Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Rugiet Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. PrizePicksDownload the PrizePicks app today and use codeLOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    42 min
  6. Shlotkin Shrapnel FORMING | Star Gaze or Star HUNT | Charles Lee Coach of the Year CHANCES

    MAY 2

    Shlotkin Shrapnel FORMING | Star Gaze or Star HUNT | Charles Lee Coach of the Year CHANCES

    The first major playoff shockwave is here, and the Denver Nuggets’ stunning implosion has the entire NBA buzzing—especially teams like the Charlotte Hornets hunting for the next big star. In today’s episode, Walker Mehl examines how Denver’s core could be due for massive change and why Charlotte is already cropping up in national trade speculation. Could the Hornets be the league’s favorite destination for “star shrapnel” this summer? Walker sorts the league into trade tiers, highlighting teams with stars, those spiraling into chaos, and the squads where anything is possible. He breaks down Charlotte’s most realistic trade targets from Denver and elsewhere, weighing the upside—and risk—of names like Aaron Gordon and Cam Johnson, and what it would take to get them in teal and purple. Also, get the host’s perspective on whether the dream scenario of Nikola Jokic joining LaMelo Ball is even worth considering, and why Jamal Murray and others are likely out of the Hornets’ reach. The episode doesn’t stop at player rumors. Walker shares thoughts on Charles Lee’s shot at Coach of the Year after a massive turnaround season for Charlotte, and whether expectations will make future awards harder to grab. Hear how the Hornets are positioning themselves as trade machine favorites in the weeks to come, and why this offseason might be the most pivotal in recent memory. Catch all the rumors, analysis, and a little Hornets hope in this jam-packed episode. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    33 min
  7. Moussa WINS Hustle Award | Best Moose MOMENTS | Hornets life NEWS

    APR 30

    Moussa WINS Hustle Award | Best Moose MOMENTS | Hornets life NEWS

    On this episode of Locked On Hornets, the Charlotte Hornets grab some well-deserved hardware as Moussa Diabate takes home the NBA's coveted Hustle Award. Host Doug Branson celebrates everything Diabate delivered to the team this year—from heart, intensity, and elite offensive rebounding to sparking lineup changes that transformed the Hornets’ style of play. Hear a rundown of Diabate’s defining “Moose Moments,” including his gritty performances, a memorable showdown with Victor Wembanyama, a playoff-caliber fourth quarter against the Knicks, and even the infamous clash with Detroit that signaled a new attitude for Charlotte. The conversation also sets the spotlight on the growth and evolving roles across the roster, pondering what’s next for Diabate, the need for more shooting bigs, and what it will take to push this squad deeper into the playoffs. Off the court, there’s plenty to talk about too—LaMelo Ball debuts a head-turning new haircut and Grant Williams shares joyful personal news. With contributions from the entire Hornets community, this episode delivers the highs, the hustle, and a clear vision for the franchise’s next step. Whether you’re celebrating "Moussa Day" or analyzing Charlotte’s foundation for future success, this is a can’t-miss episode for Hornets fans.   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.   DoorDash From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.  Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.  DoorDash. In your bag all season long. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    38 min
  8. NBA Drops 3-2-1 Draft BOMB! | Hornets future CHANGES | New odds EXPLAINED

    APR 29

    NBA Drops 3-2-1 Draft BOMB! | Hornets future CHANGES | New odds EXPLAINED

    Adam Silver isn’t just talking about fixing the NBA’s tanking problem—he’s putting dramatic reforms on the table, and teams like the Charlotte Hornets could feel the effects for years to come. On today’s episode, Walker Mehl and Doug Branson break down the brand-new 3-2-1 lottery proposal: what it is, why it matters, and how it could turn draft strategy upside down. With flattened odds, a softened relegation zone, and new restrictions on back-to-back No. 1 picks, the NBA is changing the rules of the game—and teams that have been stockpiling future picks, like Charlotte with selections from Miami and Dallas, face unpredictable new risks and opportunities. Find out how the new lottery setup could impact the value of the Hornets’ future assets and what it means for decisions about trading or keeping those picks. Doug Branson and Walker Mehl hash out whether these reforms actually serve small-market teams and ponder worst-case scenarios if stars go down to injury under the new system. Plus, which changes do they approve of, and where might unintended consequences pop up? Get a few wild and creative proposals for fixing tanking once and for all, then stick around for some candid playoff takes: does Orlando’s success soften the Hornets’ play-in defeat, and which first-round matchups have the most at stake for Charlotte’s rivals? Insightful, opinionated, and sharp—if you want the real Hornets conversation, this episode is a must-listen. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    40 min
4.6
out of 5
266 Ratings

About

Locked On Hornets podcast is your daily ticket to stay ahead of the game and the first to know the latest news, analysis, and insider info for the Charlotte Hornets and the NBA. Walker Mehl from WFNZ and Doug Branson, a writer at EveryHornetsBoxscore.com, provide expert, local analysis and intelligent takes on the Charlotte Hornets. Locked On Hornets takes you beyond the scoreboard for the inside scoops on the biggest stories from within the Hornets locker room and all over the NBA. The Locked On Hornets podcast is part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

More From Locked On Podcast Network

You Might Also Like