Kon Knueppel’s rookie year isn’t just turning heads-it’s turning the record books upside down.
The Charlotte Hornets’ first-year guard has been on a tear, and Monday night added another milestone to what’s quickly becoming one of the most impressive rookie campaigns in recent memory. Knueppel became the fastest rookie in NBA history to hit 100 career three-pointers, reaching the mark in just 29 games.
That’s not just fast-it’s historic. The previous record?
Held by Lauri Markkanen, who needed 41 games to get there. Knueppel beat that by nearly two weeks’ worth of games.
Here’s how the leaderboard stacks up now: 1.
Kon Knueppel - 29 games
2.
Lauri Markkanen - 41 games
3.
Keegan Murray - 42 games
4.
Luka Dončić - 42 games
5.
Brandon Miller - 43 games
That’s some elite company-and Knueppel just sprinted past all of them.
He’s not just shooting threes at volume; he’s doing it with confidence, rhythm, and efficiency that you rarely see from a rookie. It’s the kind of perimeter production that’s already sparked comparisons to the league’s greatest shooters.
In fact, Pacers legend Reggie Miller has gone on record saying Knueppel could one day challenge Stephen Curry’s three-point legacy. That’s a lofty projection, no doubt, but the rookie’s trajectory suggests he’s not shying away from the spotlight-or the challenge.
Even more impressive? Knueppel is on pace to break the rookie record for most three-pointers in a season, currently held by Keegan Murray, who knocked down 206 triples during the 2022-23 campaign with the Kings. Knueppel’s pace puts him well within striking distance.
And it’s not just the stat sheets noticing. On Monday, the NBA announced Knueppel as a nominee for Eastern Conference Player of the Week-his third nomination already this season.
That kind of recognition doesn’t come easy, especially on a team still trying to find its footing. But Knueppel’s impact is undeniable, both in the box score and in the energy he brings night in and night out.
In Monday’s matchup against the Cavaliers, Knueppel poured in 20 points, hit five threes, and added a pair of assists in 31 minutes. The Hornets ultimately fell short, 139-132, but the rookie’s performance was once again a highlight.
He wasn’t alone in carrying the load. LaMelo Ball led the team with 23 points and nine assists, showing flashes of his usual playmaking brilliance.
Brandon Miller added 20 points of his own, and Miles Bridges chipped in with 17. But despite the offensive firepower, Charlotte couldn’t hold off a high-scoring Cleveland squad.
The Hornets selected Knueppel with the fourth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and from day one, he’s played like someone out to prove he belongs. His work ethic, confidence, and ability to stretch the floor have already made him a foundational piece in Charlotte’s rebuild.
Still, the team’s record tells a different story. At 9-20, the Hornets are in the thick of a tough season.
But amid the struggles, Knueppel’s emergence offers real hope for the future. He’s not just putting up numbers-he’s building something.
And if his start is any indication, this rookie isn’t just chasing awards. He’s chasing greatness.