Kon Knueppel made a remarkable entrance into the NBA by being selected fourth overall by the Charlotte Hornets during the 2025 NBA Draft, staying true to his North Carolina roots. His family, including his brothers, supported him during this pivotal moment, highlighting the strong familial ties that have propelled their basketball journeys.
Following a successful stint with the Duke Blue Devils, Knueppel showcased his potential during the NBA Summer League and the Hornets’ preseason games. His hard work paid off, as he played a key role in the team’s first victory of the regular season, facing off against the Brooklyn Nets. The Hornets secured a decisive 136-117 win, underscoring the effectiveness of their collective effort.
One of the standout statistics from the game was the impressive 33 assists, distributed among nine different players. Knueppel enthusiastically commented on this team effort, likening it to “a potluck” where everyone contributed. He mentioned, “Everybody’s playing unselfishly. I mean, how many guys do we have in double figures… nine? That’s fun basketball, and that’s how it’s supposed to be played. So, hopefully we can keep that going.”
Indeed, the Hornets had a balanced scoring attack with nine players reaching double digits, featuring all five starters and four contributing players from the bench. Knueppel himself contributed 11 points, five rebounds, and one assist, ranking as the seventh-highest scorer on the team. His fellow Duke alumni, Sion James, also made his mark with four rebounds, two points, two assists, and one block.
Looking ahead, Knueppel and the Hornets are set to face the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday, October 25, at 7:30 p.m. ET, with the game available on NBA TV’s League Pass. This early momentum suggests a promising season for the Hornets as they continue to build on their teamwork and synergy on the court.