Kon Knueppel
Kon Knueppel is an American professional basketball player for the Charlotte Hornets of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on August 3, 2005, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Knueppel is either 1.93 m (6 ft 4 in) or 2.01 m (6 ft 7 in) and weighs either 98 kg (215 lbs) or 93 kg (205 lbs), playing as a power forward or shooting guard. Knueppel’s college career was at Duke University, where he played for the Duke Blue Devils during the 2024-2025 season. During his time at Duke, he made a significant impact, earning several distinctions, including Second-team All-ACC (2025), ACC All-Freshman Team (2025), and ACC tournament MVP (2025). He accumulated 563 points and 1189 minutes played in his single season with the Blue Devils. His college statistics also highlight his efficiency, with shooting percentages of 47.9% from the field, 40.6% from three-point range, and 91.4% from the free-throw line, demonstrating his elite shooting ability. He was also recognized as the Wisconsin Gatorade Player of the Year in 2024. His impressive college performance led him to be a highly coveted prospect for the NBA draft. In the 2025 NBA draft, Kon Knueppel was selected as the fourth overall pick in the first round by the Charlotte Hornets. This marked a significant milestone in his career, transitioning from college to professional basketball. After the draft, Knueppel quickly made an impact with the Charlotte Hornets. He played a crucial role in leading the Hornets to their first franchise trophy, the 2025 NBA Summer League Championship. For his excellent contributions during the Summer League, he was awarded the Summer League Championship MVP, further solidifying his potential as a rising star in the NBA. His professional career officially began in 2025 with the Charlotte Hornets. Knueppel is known for his elite shooting, quick release, and range, making him a constant threat from beyond the arc. He is also described as a low-turnover decision-maker with a high basketball IQ and excellent shot selection. While not an elite athlete or defender, he compensates with skill, footwork, and game perception, offering NBA-ready floor spacing and unselfish play. He has demonstrated strong fundamentals, good rebounding for his position, and the ability to make good reads and keep turnovers low. His career highlights before the NBA also include participation in the Jordan Brand Classic (2024) and recognition as Wisconsin Mr. Basketball (2024).
