1998 Eastern Conference Playoffs
A valiant first-round stand against the dynasty that ultimately fell short in three straight games.
The 1998 NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs marked a pivotal, albeit heartbreaking, chapter in the early history of the Charlotte Hornets. Led by the charismatic Alonzo Mourning and the sharpshooting Baron Davis, this campaign represented the franchise's most significant postseason push during its original tenure in Charlotte. The team secured the 6th seed in the East, setting up a first-round series against the defending champion Chicago Bulls.
- Season
- 1997-98
- Head Coach
- Dave Cowens
- Key Player
- Alonzo Mourning
- Regular Season Record
- 51-31
- Playoff Result
- First Round Exit
- Opponent
- Chicago Bulls (2nd Seed)
- Series Outcome
- Lost 0-3
Lore & Background
The 1997-98 season was a high-water mark for the Hornets' original era. After finishing with an impressive 51-31 record, the team entered the playoffs as the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference. The atmosphere at the Charlotte Coliseum was electric, fueled by the hope that this young, athletic squad could finally break through to the second round. Alonzo Mourning, acquired just a year prior via trade from Miami, had established himself as the defensive anchor and emotional leader of the team.
In Their Own Story
The air inside the Charlotte Coliseum was thick with anticipation and nervous energy on that Tuesday night in April. The hardwood squeaked under the heavy feet of Alonzo Mourning as he boxed out, his eyes locked on the rim. Across the court, Michael Jordan stood poised, a silhouette against the bright arena lights. The crowd roared as the Hornets forced a turnover, but the momentum shifted instantly when Chicago's defense collapsed around the paint. It was a microcosm of the series: moments of brilliance for Charlotte, quickly extinguished by the sheer force of the Bulls' championship experience.
Reader's Guide
The 1997-98 season began with high expectations following the acquisition of Alonzo Mourning in the previous summer. Under head coach Dave Cowens, the Hornets transformed into a defensive powerhouse, securing the sixth seed with a 51-win campaign. Entering the playoffs, the team faced the daunting challenge of the second-seeded Chicago Bulls. The first-round series was scheduled as a best-of-five format, with Charlotte hoping to steal a game at home in the Coliseum. Despite a valiant effort, the Hornets were swept 3-0 by the Bulls. The loss highlighted the gap between a rising contender and an established dynasty, setting the stage for future roster adjustments and the eventual relocation of the franchise years later.
Did You Know?
- This was the first time in franchise history that the Hornets finished with over 50 wins in a single season.
- Alonzo Mourning averaged over 23 points per game during this playoff series despite the team's loss.
- The series against Chicago took place just before Michael Jordan's first retirement from professional basketball.
- Dave Cowens was in his second and final season as head coach of the Hornets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who coached the Charlotte Hornets during the 1998 Eastern Conference Playoffs?
Dave Cowens served as the head coach for the franchise throughout that postseason campaign against Chicago.
Which team defeated the Hornets in the first round of 1998?
The defending champion Chicago Bulls eliminated Charlotte by sweeping the series in three straight games.
What was the outcome of the Hornets' 1997-98 playoff run?
Despite securing a high seed, the franchise suffered an early exit after losing their opening round matchup decisively.
Why is the 1998 Eastern Conference Playoffs significant for Charlotte fans?
This campaign represented one of the most notable postseason pushes during the team's original tenure in North Carolina before the franchise moved.
Did the Hornets win any games against the Bulls in 1998?
No, the Hornets were unable to secure a victory as Chicago won all three contests to advance further in the tournament.