BREAKING NEWS: Hornets Basketball Legend Kemba Walker Returns as Co-Owner In a monumental announcement, Hornets which is owned by Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall, has officially declared that Kemba Walker the legendary power forward and long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as a co-owner..…view more

In a monumental move set to reshape the future of the Charlotte Hornets, the franchise has officially announced that Kemba Walker, the beloved former All-Star and long-time face of the team, is returning to the organization — this time, as a co-owner.

The announcement was made by current Hornets owners Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall, who expressed their excitement about welcoming Walker back into the fold, this time in the boardroom rather than on the court.

“Kemba embodies everything the Hornets stand for — resilience, loyalty, and leadership,” said Schnall. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to have him return, now helping guide the franchise from the top.”

Walker, a three-time All-Star and the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, spent the majority of his career in Charlotte, becoming a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the team’s identity throughout the 2010s. His return marks a full-circle moment not just for the franchise, but for the city of Charlotte and its loyal basketball community.

“Charlotte has always been home,” said Walker in a heartfelt statement. “This team gave me my start, believed in me, and embraced me. Now, I’m ready to give back in a new way — building a championship culture from the inside out.”

1. Walker’s transition from star player to co-owner places him among a growing group of former NBA greats who are taking leadership roles in ownership and front office operations, signaling a powerful new era of player empowerment and influence within the league.

More details are expected in the coming weeks regarding Walker’s role in basketball operations, community outreach, and player development initiatives.

Stay tuned for more updates on Kemba Walker’s historic return to the Hornets — this time, in a suit and tie.

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