Hornets' Clifford cleared from health issue, targeting Jan. 17 return

The Charlotte Hornets will be getting a much needed lift with the impending return of their bench boss. The team announced that head coach Steve Clifford has been cleared to return to his role on the sidelines.

Clifford will return to practices on Jan. 16 and plans to make his in-game coaching return versus the Washington Wizards the following night.

The 57-year-old took a leave of absence on Dec. 6 for an undisclosed health issue. Associate head coach Stephen Silas guided the Hornets to a 6-11 record in his head coach's absence.