Charlotte, NC – In a move that sent a clear message about the direction of the franchise, the Charlotte Hornets made a startling and impactful selection at the 2025 NBA Draft, taking Duke University’s sharpshooting wing, Kon Knueppel, with the fourth overall pick. This wasn’t merely a pick; it was a statement. For years, the “Queen City” has yearned for consistent success and a defined identity. With the addition of Knueppel, a player whose game is built on elite shooting, high basketball IQ, and an undeniable winning pedigree, the Hornets have declared their commitment to fundamental basketball, strategic growth, and a future where “K2” – as fans are already affectionately dubbing the potential pairing of Knueppel with star forward Brandon Miller – lights up the Spectrum Center.
The selection, while not universally projected as a top-five lock in all mock drafts, was a clear indication that the new Hornets leadership, spearheaded by President of Basketball Operations Jeff Peterson and Head Coach Charles Lee, is intent on building with intention and acquiring players who fit a specific, winning mold. Knueppel’s calm demeanor, impeccable shooting stroke, and unselfish play stand in stark contrast to some of the flashier, but perhaps less polished, prospects available in the top tier of the draft. This “mature” move, as some analysts have called it, signifies a strategic shift for a franchise that has too often found itself adrift in the murky waters of the Eastern Conference.
Kon Knueppel’s collegiate career at Duke was nothing short of exceptional. As a true freshman in the 2024-2025 season, he immediately established himself as a vital cog in Coach Jon Scheyer’s Final Four-bound Blue Devils squad. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 217 pounds, Knueppel possesses ideal size for a modern NBA wing. What truly sets him apart, however, is his remarkable shooting efficiency. He consistently buried three-pointers at a 40.6% clip on a significant volume of attempts, making him one of the most prolific perimeter threats in college basketball. Beyond his long-range accuracy, Knueppel demonstrated an advanced understanding of spacing, cutting, and operating within a team offense. He was also nearly a 50/40/90 player, a testament to his overall offensive polish, shooting 47.9% from the field and an astounding 91.4% from the free-throw line.
His production extended beyond just scoring. Knueppel averaged 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game for Duke, showcasing his versatility as a secondary playmaker. Crucially, when Cooper Flagg, Duke’s consensus No. 1 pick, was sidelined by injury during the ACC Tournament, it was Knueppel who stepped up as the alpha, leading the Blue Devils to the championship and earning ACC Tournament MVP honors. This ability to elevate his game in high-pressure situations undoubtedly caught the eye of the Hornets’ front office. His performance in the national championship game, where he scored 18 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, further solidified his reputation as a big-game player.
For the Charlotte Hornets, Knueppel represents a vital piece in their ongoing rebuild around young stars LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. The need for consistent shooting and reliable floor spacing around Ball’s dynamic playmaking and Miller’s versatile scoring has been paramount. Knueppel immediately addresses both. His ability to knock down open shots will create more driving lanes for Ball and reduce the defensive pressure on Miller. Furthermore, his high basketball IQ suggests he’ll seamlessly integrate into the Hornets’ offensive system, making smart reads and maintaining efficient ball movement.
While some draft analysts raised questions about Knueppel’s perceived “lack of flash” or elite athleticism, the Hornets clearly prioritized his undeniable skill, consistent production, and overall winning approach. As one scout put it, “There’s no eye-catching above-the-rim dunks or silky crossover highlights… But he makes a team better, which is the whole point of a basketball player on a basketball team.” This sentiment aligns perfectly with the rumored shift in the Hornets’ draft philosophy: less emphasis on raw upside and more on immediate fit and proven winning characteristics.
The “Queen City” has long been a basketball town, eager to embrace a winning product. The “K2” nickname is already gaining traction among the fanbase, hinting at the excitement surrounding the potential synergy between Knueppel’s shooting and Miller’s all-around game. Imagining the floor spaced with two high-level shooters, alongside LaMelo Ball’s passing wizardry, paints a promising picture for the Hornets’ future offense.
Beyond his on-court contributions, Knueppel’s character and work ethic also fit the mold of what the Hornets are aiming to build. His quiet faith and dedicated approach to his craft resonate with a franchise striving for a more serious and intentional culture. This pick isn’t just about talent; it’s about building a foundation of professionalism and commitment.
The Hornets weren’t done making moves after selecting Knueppel. In a subsequent trade, they reportedly sent center Mark Williams to the Phoenix Suns for the No. 29 pick and a 2029 first-round pick, demonstrating their flexibility and willingness to accumulate future assets while addressing immediate needs. They then used the 29th pick to select Liam McNeeley from UConn, further solidifying their wing depth with another high-IQ player known for his shooting. And in the second round, they reunited Knueppel with his Duke teammate, Sion James, whom they selected with the 33rd overall pick. This strategic sequence of moves, centered around Knueppel, underscores a cohesive vision for the Charlotte Hornets.
As Kon Knueppel begins his NBA journey in the Queen City, the spotlight will be on him to provide the consistent shooting and smart play that made him a top-four pick. For Charlotte, this draft represents a bold new chapter, one where intentionality, fundamental excellence, and a focus on winning talent like “K2” become the cornerstones of their rebuilding effort. The excitement is palpable, and the city is ready to embrace its newest star.
