CHARLOTTE, N.C. _ Point guard Kemba Walker closed the deal Wednesday, but his team couldn't against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Walker hit a layup in the closing seconds of a 118-105 loss to the Cavs to break Dell Curry's all-time franchise scoring record. Walker finished with 21 points, one more than he needed to top Curry's 9,389 points.
Walker was hugged by Cavs superstar LeBron James (41 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists) following the game.
"I'm not supposed to be here. A lot of people where I'm from (New York City) don't make it," Walker said following the game, after crying as he was presented the ball. "This was a long ride, and I'm glad I made it.
"I want to be as good as I can. They say you can't get better as you get older, but that's not true."
Walker struggled initially, missing seven of his first eight shots. He finished 7-of-18 from the field.
The Hornets entered this game on a four-game winning streak, all four victories over teams that will miss the playoffs.
Dwight Howard added 19 points and 10 rebounds for the Hornets.
James tied now-Hornets owner Michael Jordan for most consecutive regular-season games scoring 10 or more points (866) in the first half.
James shot 14 of 26 from the field, 4 of 8 from the 3-point line and 9 of 11 from the free-throw line.
The Cavs replaced two starters Wednesday, one due to injury, the other by coach's choice: Kevin Love missed the game in concussion protocol, after being elbowed in the face Tuesday night playing the Miami Heat. Tristan Thompson started in Love's place. Also, the Cavs started former Duke star Rodney Hood, replacing Jose Calderon.
