Bryant joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996 despite being initially drafted by the Charlotte Hornets.

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Eddie Robinson played for the Charlotte Hornets for two years before signing on with the Chicago Bulls.

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That same offer was presented to the Charlotte Hornets prior to the team opting to move to New Orleans.

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In 24 seasons, the Charlotte Hornets made the playoffs 12 times.

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Former NBA great and golfing buddy Michael Jordan, who failed in his attempt to buy a piece of the NBA's Charlotte Hornets last year, repeatedly turned Lemieux down.

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In turn, Bobcats owner Michael Jordan said he could be open to bringing the Hornets name back to Charlotte, where the name originated.

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