Recent No. 14 overall pick Hannes Steinbach had a breakout game for the Charlotte Hornets Friday night, posting his first NBA double-double in Charlotte's final preseason game before the 2026-27 season. Steinbach was efficient throughout the night, finishing with 19 points, 10 rebounds and three steals on 7-for-9 shooting. Of his 10 rebounds, five came on the offensive glass. Steinbach also finished with a positive plus-minus, one of only two Hornets players to do so in Charlotte's 19-point defeat to the Memphis Grizzlies.

Following the game, Hornets head coach Charles Lee had high praise for the German center, citing his approach and preparation. "The thing that I love about him is just there's a consistency with his effort, his care factor, and the work that he puts in every day. Whenever you have habits like that, you're bound to have some success."

Looking ahead, Steinbach, Lee and the Hornets will open their 2026-27 campaign Wednesday, on the road against the Brooklyn Nets.