Charlotte Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel is turning heads and lighting up scoreboards, becoming a key player in one of the most thrilling seasons Charlotte basketball has seen in over two decades.
With a jumpshot that seems almost automatic, Knueppel has emerged as the league’s most efficient 3-point shooter. Not just among rookies, but across the entire NBA. He’s closing in on the rookie record for 3-pointers made, set by Keegan Murray at 206, having already sunk 198 with 24 games still on the schedule.
Knueppel isn't just leading rookies; he’s outpacing sharpshooters like Donovan Mitchell, Stephen Curry, and Trey Murphy in total 3-pointers made. Plus, he’s flirting with the rare 50/40/90 club, a benchmark of shooting excellence achieved by only nine players in NBA history. His field goal percentage is just shy at 48.5%, but with 25 games left, he’s got time to make it happen.
Drafted fourth overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, Knueppel’s selection was somewhat overshadowed by his Duke teammate Cooper Flagg, who went first overall to the Dallas Mavericks. Yet, Knueppel is proving to be a pivotal force for the Hornets, sparking excitement reminiscent of the team’s heyday in the '90s.
The Hornets started the season slowly but have climbed into NBA Play-In contention, capturing the attention of analysts nationwide. Their starting lineup-featuring Knueppel, LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges, and Moussa Diabate-boasts the highest offensive rating among all five-man units with at least 200 minutes played.
Knueppel’s basketball pedigree is impressive. His parents, Kon Sr. and Chari, were standout players themselves. Chari, a Hall of Fame forward for the University of Green Bay-Wisconsin, and Kon Sr., who set a scoring record at Wisconsin Lutheran College, clearly passed on their talents.
Growing up, Knueppel was inspired by his father’s collection of basketball wisdom, including a memorable quote from Larry Bird: “A guy watching a ball go out of bounds without diving for it makes me sick.” This mindset is evident in Knueppel’s veteran-like play at just 20 years old.
For the Hornets, Knueppel’s dedication and talent are exactly what the franchise has needed. After years in the NBA's basement since their 2004 return to Charlotte, Knueppel’s trajectory suggests a promising future, potentially steering the team to new heights over the next decade.