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James Borrego inspires Hornets by singing “Don’t Stop Believin’” in huddle

Hornets coach James Borrego

DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 4: James Borrego of the Charlotte Hornets looks on during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on January 4, 2020 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2020 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)

NBAE via Getty Images

The Mavericks overcame a 20-point deficit. They took a six-point lead in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter. Luka Doncic had a triple-double.

But the Hornets still beat the Mavericks on Saturday.

Why?

They didn’t stop believing.

Roderick Boone of The Athletic:

As the American Airlines Center sound system blasted Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” and the sellout crowd was practically frothing at the mouth with excitement, Hornets coach James Borrego propped himself down on a chair and began his own acapella version of the classic Journey tune.

“He just came to the huddle and just started asking everybody did we know this song and he started singing it,” Washington said. “We were like, ‘We’re down like six with two minutes left.’ So it was definitely funny. But we definitely kind of eased the mood and went in there and kept fighting.”


Charlotte won, so this is awesome. P.J. Washington and his teammates can laugh about their kooky coach.

But Borrego ought to be careful. If the Hornets lost, he’d be seen as a nutjob.

That’s how sports analysis works.