JEREMY LIN had 18 points, while Frank Kaminsky scored nine of his 15 points during an 18-0 run in the third quarter that broke open a tie game as the Charlotte Hornets beat the Miami Heat 96-80 Saturday night to snap a 12-game playoff losing streak and earn their first postseason victory in 14 years.

    The Heat lead the series 2-1, with Game 4 set for tonight.

    “This isn’t about winning one playoff game, it’s about winning a playoff series,’’ coach Steve Clifford said of ending the team’s playoff drought.

    “This gives us a chance.’’

    Kemba Walker had 17 for Charlotte. Marvin Williams, a non-factor in the first two games while hitting just 1 of 17 shots, finished with 12 points and 14 rebounds.

    Luol Deng scored 19 points on five 3-pointers, and Dwyane Wade added 17 for Miami. Hassan Whiteside had 13 points and 18 rebounds but battled foul trouble.

    Miami, which shot 58 percent from the field in the first two games, was limited to 34 percent shooting.

    The Hornets outscored the Heat 52-28 in the paint and had four turnovers to Miami’s 15.

    Charlotte has been strong at home all season, going 31-10 during the regular season.

    (SD-Agencies)