Look who is joining @philorbanWSOC9 and @DaShawnWSOC9 for some #Hornets talk on @wsoctv in a few minutes. Tune in.

Today officially marks the end of the road for me at The Charlotte Observer. Five years ago, when tasked with the duty of continuing the newspaper's #Hornets coverage, I said in my introductory column the goal was to "provide, you the reader, with the best Hornets' coverage anywhere." And that's exactly what I did. Whether it was an exclusive with LaMelo Ball (amp.charlotteobserver.com/sp…) or Naz Reid (amp.charlotteobserver.com/sp…). Going behind the scenes with Hugo to see what it's like to be a loveable mascot (amp.charlotteobserver.com/sp…). Or even something as simple as reporting in July that the player Charlotte just traded away this week was unlikely to suit up for the team when he was acquired from Houston (nitter.siddz.com/rodboone/status/207426…). Doing it all was an honor. Of course, there's been no shortage of stories. In the half-decade at The Observer, I've covered three different head coaches, two head coaching searches (three if you include the Kenny Atkinson situation), a GM search and change in ownership where Michael Jordan sold a majority of his stakes. It's been a fun ride. Thanks again to all who followed along, especially the loyal readers and subscribers. - 30 -

Last week, exactly 10 days before my 5-year anniversary at The Charlotte Observer, my position was eliminated by McClatchy along with 7 of my colleagues. And it happened less than 48 hours after being told corporate had given the green light to bring back my podcast they whacked two years earlier. This means the paper of record that has covered the franchise since its inception in 1987 will no longer have a writer dedicated to giving readers the latest daily insight on the team. Training camp starts in two weeks. During my career in this industry, which has spanned more than 25 years, I've had my share of tough assignments. Following in the footsteps of a legend and someone whose name is permanently affixed to two areas in Spectrum Center ranks right up there. I'm grateful, thankful and forever humbled that I was the one chosen to take on the huge responsibility. And I'm proud of the content I produced. Every single bit of it, including a recent string of nothing but exclusives. Thanks to all those who consumed my work and musings about the #Hornets. It's deeply appreciated. Cheers to what's next.

McClatchy layoffs affected a third of our reporting staff in Charlotte. They covered vital beats. A paper without an education or investigative reporter? A head-scratcher. There's a lot to say, but for now I'll leave it at: please help, if you can. gofund.me/b0b34f55c

How Zach Peterson taking over as Greensboro Swarm coach helps the #Hornets: charlotteobserver.com/sports…

In Greensboro for Zach Peterson's introduction as the new @greensboroswarm head coach.

Today's roster move: #Hornets signed guard Bez Mbeng.

Kobe Stewart has been waived as well. Roster back down to 20.

Today's roster move: Upon waiving Jarkell Joiner, #Hornets have signed guard/forward Kobe Stewart to an Exhibit 10 deal.

On his weekly segment on @theobserver's Talking Preps, former Carolina Panthers DL Brentson Buckner (@faithbeforefame) talked the 2004 Super Bowl, including the Janet Jackson/Justin Timberlake halftime show and rumors around the Patriots spying on Panthers' practices.

Today's roster move: After waiving Kyle Mangus, #Hornets signed guard Jarkel Joiner to an Exhibit 10 contract.

Today's roster move: Upon waiving Townsend, the #Hornets signed guard Kyle Mangas It's an Exhibit 10 deal as well, per league sources.

Hammer comes down on the Clippers.

The @greensboroswarm have announced Mike Pires as their new General Manager and Zach Peterson as the team's head coach. Pires worked with Jeff Peterson in Brooklyn.

More back end roster work: After releasing Allick today, #Hornets have signed Trey Townsend. It's an Exhibit 10 contract, per league sources.

#Hornets signed Josiah Allick to an Exhibit 10 contract, league sources told @theobserver. Move gives Charlotte his G League rights with the @greensboroswarm. Roster is up to 21 as back end work starts to ramp up with training camp a month away.

Took a tour of the #Hornets new practice facility to see the progress. Impressive stuff. Huge training area that is nearly triple the current size at the Novant Health Training Center. Cool features, including a lovely view of the arena and uptown from the team dining lounge.

#Hornets assistant coach Lamar Skeeter is participating in the NBA's Basketball Without Borders Up Next Camp in Istanbul.

What should we expect from the #Hornets? “Do I know if we are going to be good or great?" Brandon Miller told me. "I know we are going to be a hard-working team. It’s not about who makes the most shots. It’s about who can play consistently at 110% every night. I think that’s one thing we are going to take pride in.” Caught up with Brandon for an update on his rehab after surgery, evolving into a leader and more. Another @theobserver exclusive. 🆓️🎁🔗 charlotteobserver.com/sports…