In a game that felt like a sneak peek into the NBA’s future, the Charlotte Hornets edged out the Dallas Mavericks 123-121 in Texas, thanks to a record-setting performance from rookie sharpshooter Kon Knueppel-and a whole lot of poise down the stretch.
This wasn’t just another midseason matchup. It was a showcase of two of the league’s most exciting rookies going toe-to-toe: Knueppel for Charlotte and Cooper Flagg for Dallas. And neither disappointed.
Let’s start with Knueppel, who lit it up from beyond the arc. The Hornets rookie knocked down eight three-pointers, setting a new franchise record for threes in a single game-a mark previously shared by five players, including himself.
Yes, Knueppel just broke his own record. That’s the kind of season he’s having.
He finished the night with 34 points on 10-of-16 shooting, including a scorching 8-of-12 from deep, while adding four rebounds and three assists. His shooting stroke was pure, his confidence unwavering, and his timing impeccable. Every time the Mavericks made a push, Knueppel had an answer.
But across the court, Cooper Flagg was putting on a show of his own. The Mavericks rookie erupted for a career-high 49 points, doing everything he could to keep Dallas in the fight.
Flagg’s scoring arsenal was on full display-pull-up jumpers, drives to the rim, and tough contested shots. It was a performance that screamed “future All-Star,” even in a losing effort.
Despite Flagg’s heroics, it was Charlotte that walked away with the win-and that says something. The Hornets didn’t flinch. They stayed composed, trusted their ball movement, and leaned into the rhythm that’s fueled their recent success.
Knueppel, in particular, has been a major catalyst for Charlotte’s current five-game winning streak, which began with a dominant 124-97 win over the Orlando Magic. He’s now third on the team in scoring, averaging 18.9 points per game while shooting an efficient 48.6% from the field and 42.6% from three. Those aren’t just solid rookie numbers-they’re the kind of numbers that change game plans.
What’s especially impressive is how Knueppel is blending volume with efficiency. He’s not just taking shots-he’s making the right ones. And in games like this, where the spotlight is bright and the margin for error is slim, that kind of decision-making matters.
This was the first NBA meeting between Knueppel and Flagg, and if this is any indication of what’s to come, fans should circle every Hornets-Mavs matchup on the calendar. Their next showdown comes on March 3, and you can bet both players will be ready.
Up next for Charlotte: a Saturday matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. Another chance for Knueppel to keep building on what’s quickly becoming a standout rookie campaign.