Brooklyn Nets Suffer First Loss to Hornets in 2025-26 Season

The 2025-26 Season Begins with a Bittersweet Start for the Brooklyn Nets

The wait between the end of one NBA season and the start of the next often feels like an eternity for fans. For the Brooklyn Nets, that wait was even more prolonged than usual. However, now that the 2025-26 season has officially begun, the focus is on what lies ahead rather than what has already passed.

The Nets made a bold move two summers ago by committing to a rebuild, but it took over a year before they could begin reaping the rewards of their decision. When the time finally came, they made history by acquiring five players via the draft, setting the stage for high expectations. But now, as the team takes the court, the emphasis is on the future — perhaps more than ever before.

A Mixed Opening Game Performance

In their opening game against the Charlotte Hornets, the Nets had a mix of promising moments and glaring issues. Danny Wolf missed the game due to a left ankle sprain, which meant Ben Saraf started in his place. Saraf became the first rookie picked at No. 26 to start a game since Vonteego Cummings, marking an interesting moment in franchise history.

Alongside Cam Thomas, Terance Mann, Michael Porter Jr., and Nic Claxton, the starting lineup struggled to find rhythm offensively. The Nets scored 32 points in the first quarter, but much of their success came from free throws and a few standout plays, such as Egor Dëmin's first career bucket. However, the offense appeared disjointed, with several possessions ending in rushed shots and turnovers.

The defense was equally concerning. The Nets allowed 38 points in the first quarter and 39 in the second, giving Charlotte a commanding 77-60 lead at halftime. The Hornets capitalized on weak defensive rotations and poor transition defense, scoring easily in both half-court and fast-break situations.

A Rough Night for Key Players

Despite the struggles, some players showed flashes of potential. Terance Mann, in his Nets debut, contributed 13 points, a rebound, and an assist while shooting 4-6 from the field. However, his performance couldn’t overcome the team’s overall lack of cohesion.

Michael Porter Jr. and Cam Thomas, expected to be key contributors, struggled offensively. Porter shot just 2-9 from the field, while Thomas added 15 points but shot only 2-9. Both will need to improve as the season progresses.

Nic Claxton led the Nets with 17 points, shooting 8-12 from the field and grabbing four rebounds. Day’Ron Sharpe added 14 points after making all but one of his seven field goal attempts, including a three-pointer. Egor Dëmin also had a solid game with 14 points, four rebounds, and two assists.

Coach Fernández Remains Optimistic

Jordi Fernández, the Nets' head coach, remained positive despite the loss. He praised the efforts of rookies Egor Dëmin and Ben Saraf, emphasizing the importance of gaining experience and understanding the team’s systems.

“I was happy with both,” Fernández said. “It’s going to be a process. Even Nolan getting in and getting some minutes. Those minutes are important. You have to try to win your minutes…That’s great experience, following game plans and knowing personnel. You get your feet wet right there.”

Fernández also stressed the importance of never giving up, regardless of how the game unfolds. “If your best scorers don’t score, it’s gonna be a tough night, but you still gotta give yourself a chance,” he said. “You have to fight, maybe double team more, hustle, run, offensive rebound, and be there to try to fight for the game.”

Looking Ahead

While the opening game was a tough loss, it wasn’t without value. As Fernández noted, the early struggles are part of the growing pains that come with building a new team. The Nets are in a season where development is the priority, and tonight was just the beginning.

Injury Updates and Milestones

Drake Powell, who played in the fourth quarter, suffered a lower body injury midway through the game. He had previously dealt with a left knee tendinopathy during the offseason. Meanwhile, Danny Wolf was ruled out due to an ankle sprain sustained during shootaround.

On a positive note, four rookies made their NBA debuts for the Nets, marking just the fourth time this has happened in franchise history. Egor Dëmin became the first rookie in Nets history to make three three-pointers in his debut, and Ben Saraf became the second-youngest player to start a game in franchise history.

Next Up: A Home Opener Against the Cavaliers

The Nets will host the Cleveland Cavaliers in their home opener on Friday night at 7:30 p.m. The game will feature a halftime performance by Brooklyn-native Kota the Friend, new concessions, and a launch of a Berō merchandise capsule collection.