Is this the beginning of a culture shift in Charlotte?

The Hornets have been nothing short of a disappointment over the last decade, managing just two winning seasons and often feeling like an afterthought in the Eastern Conference.

For years, the franchise has lacked a real sense of identity or culture but that might finally be changing.

Sure, its not the NBA roster just yet but whats happening in Summer League feels real.

Theres a young core taking shape in Charlotte, with KJ Simpson, Kon Knueppel, Liam McNeeley, Tidjane Salaun, and Ryan Kalkbrenner all logging valuable minutes and learning how to play together.

Its not just about development its about building chemistry and setting the tone for what could carry into training camp and beyond.

That growth has already paid off, as they now find themselves in the Summer League championship against the Sacramento Kings.

Is it definitive proof that the culture in Charlotte is changing? Maybe not yet.

But there are clear signs, starting with new President of Basketball Operations Jeff Peterson, whos placing a strong emphasis on high-character prospects from respected college programs.

That includes Knueppel, coming out of Duke, and McNeeley, who played under Dan Hurley at UConn one of the top culture programs in the country.

Both were first-round picks and have made the most of their Summer League opportunities, carving out early roles.

But more than just their on-court impact, its the attitude, maturity, and professionalism they bring that stands out exactly the kind of tone-setters this franchise has been missing.

This shift isnt just about Summer League wins.

Its about how Peterson is reshaping the teams DNA.

Whats stood out about Simpson is how comfortable hes been taking charge he talks, he listens, and he knows how to rally a group.

Kalkbrenners the opposite in a good way: quiet, consistent, and always locked in.

He doesnt need to say much because his effort does the talking.

These guys arent just talented they come from winning environments and carry themselves like pros.If this young core keeps trending upward, the Hornets may finally be turning a long-awaited corner.

This Summer League run isnt just a flash in the pan its a first look at something real.

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