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Muggsy Bogues Praises Hornets' Leadership, Sees Bright Future

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 22:31 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: North Carolina, Louisiana, UNITED STATES

Hornets Legend Muggsy Bogues Sees Bright Future for Charlotte, Praises Kupchak and Clifford

Charlotte, NC - February 25th, 2026 - Charlotte Hornets fans are receiving a much-needed surge of optimism as franchise icon Muggsy Bogues publicly affirms his confidence in the current leadership and rebuilding process. The Hall of Fame point guard, a cornerstone of the Hornets' early years, recently shared his thoughts with The Charlotte Observer, offering a powerful vote of confidence in General Manager Mitch Kupchak and Head Coach Steve Clifford.

Bogues' endorsement arrives at a crucial juncture for the Hornets, a team navigating the complexities of a significant rebuild. Following a series of strategic trades that have seen established players depart, the Hornets have understandably faced a period of fluctuating performance. However, Bogues firmly believes these moves are not signs of instability, but rather calculated steps towards a sustained period of success.

"I feel like they're in good hands," Bogues stated emphatically. "I really do. I think Mitch [Kupchak] has done a great job of bringing in the right people and Steve [Clifford] does a great job of getting the most out of the guys he has." This isn't mere lip service from a beloved former player. Bogues' deep connection to the city and the franchise lends significant weight to his assessment.

Bogues' playing career with the Hornets spanned two stints, from 1993 to 1997 and again from 1998 to 2001. He wasn't just a player; he was a cultural phenomenon. Standing at just 5'3", Bogues defied expectations, becoming a dazzling playmaker and fan favorite. His speed, court vision, and infectious energy captivated audiences and helped establish the Hornets as a vibrant force in the NBA. He understands, perhaps better than anyone, the importance of building a team with character and resilience.

The current rebuild, however, is a different beast than the one Bogues experienced at the beginning of the franchise. The modern NBA prioritizes data analytics, player development, and a longer-term vision. Kupchak has demonstrably focused on acquiring young talent with high ceilings, prioritizing potential over immediate gratification. Recent draft picks, including forward Kai Jones and guard Jalen Williams, are being given significant opportunities to develop, even through growing pains.

Clifford, returning for his second stint as Hornets head coach, has been tasked with integrating these young players into a cohesive unit while simultaneously fostering a winning culture. While the wins haven't always come easy, Clifford's emphasis on defensive principles and player accountability is starting to resonate. His ability to maximize the potential of a diverse roster has been a hallmark of his coaching career.

Bogues recognizes the challenges inherent in this process. "You've got to be patient with these things," he explained. "It doesn't happen overnight. You've got to build a foundation and you've got to build a culture. You've got to get the right pieces in place." He acknowledges that immediate success isn't the goal, but rather the creation of a sustainable framework for long-term competitiveness.

While some fans and analysts have voiced concerns about the Hornets' recent performance, Bogues' comments serve as a valuable reminder that building a successful NBA franchise is a marathon, not a sprint. Kupchak and Clifford have undoubtedly faced scrutiny, but Bogues' endorsement provides a much-needed boost to their efforts. It also highlights the importance of having a clear vision and a commitment to a long-term plan.

The Hornets' success won't hinge solely on acquiring star players; it will also depend on developing the talent already within the organization and creating a positive team environment. Bogues, a player who embodied those very qualities, believes the current leadership is on the right track. As the Hornets continue their rebuild, Muggsy Bogues' words offer a hopeful message to the Charlotte faithful: the future is bright, and the team is in good hands.