North Charlotte Today

Isaiah Wong, a second-year combo guard, is finding his footing with the Charlotte Hornets after a challenging rookie season. Despite being drafted 55th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers, Wong played only four minutes in one game during his debut season. The Pacers' veteran-heavy roster and successful run to the Eastern Conference finals left little room for Wong to showcase his abilities.

Wong spent most of his first year with the G League's Indiana Mad Ants, where he averaged 15.5 points and participated in both the Showcase Cup Tournament Final and G League Playoffs. His performance earned him a spot at the NBA G League Next Up Game during All-Star Weekend.

After spending time with Phoenix during the Summer League and training camp in Utah, Wong found himself back in the G League before signing a two-way contract with the Charlotte Hornets on December 2nd. "I was so happy," Wong said. "All the hard work is paying off."

In ten games with Charlotte, Wong has averaged 6.1 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists over 14.3 minutes per game. He has embraced a defensive role to secure playing time and contribute energy to his team.

Hornets Head Coach Charles Lee praised Wong's defensive intensity and knack for making winning plays: "That grit and toughness has really given our team a boost."

With several early-season injuries affecting Charlotte's roster, Lee relied on two-way players like Wong to step up and fill crucial roles within the rotation.

Despite circumstances that limited his opportunities as a rookie, Isaiah Wong remains focused on proving himself at this new juncture of his career.