The Charlotte Hornets hit the jackpot in the 2025 NBA Draft when they selected Kon Knueppel with the fourth overall pick. He is one of the most impactful selections of his generation because he has become a vital piece for the present and long-term future of the Hornets.
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Knueppel is a leading candidate for Rookie of the Year against his Duke University colleague Cooper Flagg. While Flagg’s defense is his greatest strength, Knueppel also has an excellent strength: his three-point shot.
Knueppel confident in his work as a shooter
Early in the season, the Hornets were not performing well. However, Knueppel had a solid performance. That was already a promising start for the rookie, but he’s only gotten better since then.
With head coach Charles Lee in charge, the Hornets have become one of the most impressive teams since 2026 began. They had a fantastic nine-game winning streak that allowed them to beat all types of teams. Knueppel played a huge role in that streak along with teammates LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller.
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FURTHER: Reggie Miller sees Kon Knueppel as one of the favorites to win the three-point contest
Now that it’s All-Star weekend, Knueppel is in the spotlight. He is one of the participants in the Three Point Contest. Due to the reputation he has earned in his rookie season as a sharpshooter, Knueppel has become a strong contender to win the event.
The Hornets rookie is prepared to battle the big names as he believes he is one of the best the league has to offer at three-point shooting.
“I’m proud of my shot; it’s something I put a lot of time into. I think I’m one of the best in the world,” Knueppel said before the Rising Stars game.
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Of course, he’s more than just a shooter, but it’s his greatest strength. That means he has staying power in the NBA because he will be a valuable piece for the Hornets as a shooter and connective piece to the offense. As long as he plays like he has he will have no problems standing out in the league.