Charlotte Hornets rookie wing Kon Knueppel is the 17th best NBA player under 25, according to ESPN's list of the NBA’s Top 25 Players Under 25.
Selected by Charlotte in the 2024 NBA Draft, Knueppel has already made an early impression around the league. The No. 4 pick out of Duke is already averaging 18 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists. Knueppel is shooting 46% from the field and over 40% from three-point range through 24 games. He is also playing 33.5 minutes per game.
Known primarily for his shooting and off-ball movement, Knueppel has provided floor spacing and secondary playmaking for a Charlotte team focused on developing its young core. He has been one of the brightest spots in Charlotte as the Hornets currently reside in the 12th spot in the East.
The 20-year-old has fit alongside Hornets guards LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. The Duke standout brings spacing and he is benefiting from Ball’s playmaking without dominating possessions. Knueppel’s size and awareness also show promise defensively, avoiding common pitfalls faced by younger perimeter players.
Who did Kon Knueppel rank higher than?
Knueppel beat out players with more experience on the top 25 list, including Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey, Detroit Pistons guard Ausar Thompson, Washington Wizards center Alex Sarr, Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs and Atlanta Hawks guard Dyson Daniels. Giddey, Thompson and Sarr were not even on the list last year.
Knueppel was one of four players from the rookie class on ESPN's list. The Hornets rookie edged out fellow rookies Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecomb and San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper. Harper and Edgecombe were both selected ahead of Knueppel in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg was the highest ranked rookie on the list in the No. 8 spot. Flagg and Knueppel played together at Duke and they were roommates.
No surprise Flagg was the No. 1 rookie on this list as he was the first selection in the 2025 NBA Draft. Flagg is also two years younger. Oth are leading contenders for the upcoming Rookie of the Year award.