Kashing in: Kemba gets extension from Hornets

Oct 30, 2014 - 5:26 PM Charlotte, NC (SportsNetwork.com) - The Charlotte Hornets signed guard Kemba Walker to a multi-year contract extension on Thursday, a day after he lifted his team to a season-opening win.

Walker began the campaign in impressive fashion, leading the Hornets to a 108-106 overtime win over Milwaukee. He first forced overtime by draining a 3- pointer with 1.6 seconds left in regulation, then later capped a 26-point night with a successful step-back for the winning shot with 5.1 seconds remaining in overtime.

"Today is a great day for the Charlotte Hornets," Charlotte general manager Rich Cho said. "To be able to retain such an important piece of the core we are building here in Charlotte is exciting. Kemba is an integral part of the culture we're trying to create within our organization and we are excited that he will continue to be a part of our team for years to come."

Last season, Walker averaged a career-high-tying 17.7 points and career highs of 6.1 assists and 4.2 rebounds.

The 6-foot-1 Walker was selected by Charlotte with the ninth overall pick of the 2011 NBA Draft and has appeared in 221 games, including 180 starts over his three-year career. He has averaged 16.0 points, 5.5 assists and 3.7 rebounds.

"It's rewarding to continue my career with the team that drafted me," Walker said. "Since my first day in Charlotte, I knew that this was where I wanted to be. I am excited about the direction in which this franchise is headed and I'm confident that we will only get better. I'm grateful for the opportunity to represent this organization, our fans and this city moving forward."

Charlotte has improved its win total in each of Walker's three seasons.