The Charlotte Hornets came out of nowhere during the 2025-26 season, improving their record by 25 wins after finishing 19-63 a season ago. Although they missed the playoffs, Charlotte went on an incredible run and was one of the league’s best teams following the All-Star break, leading the league in net rating since January 1st. This was due in large part to the Hornets’ shooting prowess, as the Hornets led the NBA in 3-pointers made throughout the duration of the season.

For these reasons, Hornets head coach Charles Lee earned serious consideration for the NBA’s Coach of the Year Award. Lee was awarded five second-place votes and 16 third-place votes, which placed him fourth among all coaches. Joe Mazzulla (Celtics) took home the award with J.B. Bickerstaff (Pistons) and Mitch Johnson (Spurs) rounding out the top three. Lee has not yet addressed the media since the voting results were revealed. That said, the franchise has recognized his impact, inking him to a multi-year contract extension earlier this offseason.

This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Charles Lee earns NBA Coach of the Year votes