Steve Clifford to Return to Hornets Tuesday

Following a medical leave of more than a month, the Charlotte Hornets’ Steve Clifford will return to coach his team starting Tuesday at practice, the Hornets announced Thursday night.

The Observer first reported Thursday that Clifford has been cleared to return to work. He has been out since Dec. 4, when associate head coach Steve Silas took over. Previously, Clifford’s health condition was undisclosed. However, a source confirmed to the Observer that Clifford has been suffering from severe headaches, a condition that predates this season.

Clifford will address the media Friday midday at Spectrum Center. His first game back will be Wednesday night, at home against the Washington Wizards.

Clifford has been out since the morning of a Dec. 4 home game against the Orlando Magic. The Hornets were 8-13 before Clifford’s departure, and are now 16-24.

Source: Rick Bonnell of The Charlotte Observer