Hornets’ Pat Connaughton serves fantasy football punishment during Pelicans game

The Charlotte Hornets continued their strong run Monday night while delivering an unexpected viral moment that blended humor with an emerging winning culture. A fantasy football punishment involving Pat Connaughton became a talking point during the Hornets vs. New Orleans Pelicans matchup, showcasing the team’s locker-room chemistry amid a growing winning streak.

The Hornets took down the Pelicans by a score of 102–95 at home, extending their winning streak to seven games. Late in the third quarter, cameras captured an unusual scene on the Hornets bench when a veteran guard revealed a dramatic change in appearance.

Connaughton, in his first season with Charlotte following a summer trade, removed his beanie to unveil bleached blond hair. The reveal quickly spread across social media as broadcasters suggested the look stemmed from a lost bet rather than a fashion choice.

Additional clarity emerged after the game through reporting from ESPN’s Anthony Gharib, who detailed the origin of the punishment after speaking with teammates.

“After the game, Hornets guard Kon Knueppel revealed that Connaughton’s bleached blond hair was the result of finishing last in the team’s fantasy football league.”

The moment underscored a relaxed atmosphere surrounding a team playing its best basketball in nearly a decade. Charlotte has now held opponents under 100 points 11 times this season, tying for the league lead, while pairing defensive focus with visible camaraderie.

The Hornets later leaned into the moment themselves. The team’s official Instagram account shared a graphic of Connaughton to acknowledge the superstition surrounding the win.

“1-0 with blonde Pat.”

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The lighthearted punishment arrived during a stretch where results matter. The Hornets have not won seven straight games since the 2015–16 season, and veterans like Connaughton have embraced supporting roles while contributing to the team’s culture.

For the organization, the story went beyond hair color. It reflected chemistry, accountability, and confidence. In a season defined by growth, moments like these often signal a group enjoying success together while remaining locked in on winning.

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