The Charlotte Hornets traveled to Milwaukee on Friday for a rematch with the Bucks, hoping to build on Wednesday’s win that snapped their three-game losing streak. This time, the matchup came with added star power, as both Giannis Antetokounmpo and LaMelo Ball returned to action after missing the previous meeting.
Even with Ball back in the starting lineup, Friday night once again belonged to rookie Kon Knueppel. Playing in his hometown of Milwaukee, Knueppel delivered the best performance of his young career, scoring 32 points to set a new career high. His previous high of 30 came earlier this season against the Miami Heat. He also contributed three steals, three assists and three rebounds.
Knueppel’s efficient and confident play has quickly made him one of the league’s most impressive first-year players. He now averages 17.9 points per game, the highest mark among all NBA rookies.
Miles Bridges also matched Knueppel with 32 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Ball showed flashes in his return from injury, finishing with 16 points and 10 assists on 5-for-15 shooting while playing limited minutes.
Despite forcing overtime, Charlotte ran out of steam in the extra period. Milwaukee outscored the Hornets 18-5 in overtime to secure the win. Antetokounmpo was dominant, finishing with 25 points, 18 assists and seven rebounds, while Kyle Kuzma added 29 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.
The Hornets now face a quick turnaround as they return home to take on the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday, completing a tough back-to-back stretch.
More NBA news:
- Hornets rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner shines one day after becoming a father
- OKC holds Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves in check during 29-point rout
- Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle record historic triple-doubles in loss
- Jaime Jaquez Jr. Emerging as early Sixth Man of the Year candidate for Heat