The NBA has a new shooting sensation, and his name is Kon Knueppel. In a season already brimming with highlight reels, the Charlotte Hornets' rising star has officially etched his name into the league's record books, shattering the NBA rookie record for 3-pointers made with a breathtaking display of marksmanship. This isn't just a record; it's a statement from a player redefining expectations.
Key Takeaways:
- Kon Knueppel broke Keegan Murray's NBA rookie record for 3-pointers, achieving the feat in just 59 games.
- The Charlotte Hornets swingman connected on his 207th 3-pointer against the Indiana Pacers.
- Knueppel is a leading contender for Kia NBA Rookie of the Year, competing fiercely with Cooper Flagg.
- His historic shooting has become a catalyst for the Hornets' unexpected surge into playoff contention.
A New Mark in the Modern NBA
History was made on Thursday night as Kon Knueppel sunk his 207th 3-pointer against the Indiana Pacers, officially surpassing Keegan Murray's previous rookie benchmark. What makes this feat even more astonishing is the sheer speed at which Knueppel achieved it. While Murray set his record in 80 games during the 2022-23 season, the Duke product eclipsed it in a mere 59 appearances.
This blistering pace underscores a generational talent. Knueppel, who entered the night leading the league in 3-pointers and boasting an incredible 43.6% accuracy from beyond the arc, is not just breaking records; he's obliterating them. For context, even Stephen Curry, the NBA's all-time 3-point leader, made 166 threes in 80 games during his rookie season back in 2009-10.
Beyond the Arc: Knueppel's Offensive Mastery
While his shooting prowess is undeniable, Knueppel's impact stretches far beyond simply launching from deep. His high basketball IQ, honed playing against older competition since eighth grade, allows him to consistently find open spots on the floor. Paired with playmaking maestro LaMelo Ball, Knueppel has thrived as an elite catch-and-shoot specialist, with an astounding 93% of his 3s coming off assists.
Hornets coach Charles Lee recognizes the profound effect Knueppel has on the team's culture. "It’s what elevates our whole culture when you have a guy that’s that good, but that humble, no ego — it becomes contagious throughout your whole organization," Lee commented after Knueppel hit the 200-three mark. This blend of talent and humility is a rare and powerful combination.
Rookie of the Year Race: A Two-Man Show?
The conversation for Kia NBA Rookie of the Year has become intensely exciting, largely thanks to Knueppel's sensational season. He stands as a strong contender alongside his former college roommate and Duke teammate, Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick of the Dallas Mavericks. This captivating battle for top rookie honors is sure to keep fans enthralled through the rest of the season.
Cavs star Donovan Mitchell, who Knueppel surpassed for third on the rookie 3-point list earlier this month, is keenly watching the race. "It’s going to be interesting with him and Coop for Rookie of the Year," Mitchell quipped, highlighting the competitive nature of these two burgeoning stars.
Reigniting Buzz in Charlotte
Perhaps the most significant aspect of Knueppel's historic rookie campaign is its direct correlation with the Charlotte Hornets' resurgence. Long-suffering fans, who haven't seen their team in the playoffs since the 2015-16 season, now have genuine hope. Knueppel's ability to stretch the floor and create offense has transformed the Hornets, propelling them into playoff contention with 22 games remaining. His arrival has sparked a genuine buzz, proving that one player can indeed change a franchise's trajectory.
Elite Praise for a Rising Star
When the game's best shooters and scorers offer unsolicited praise, you know a player is special. Stephen Curry, the undisputed king of the 3-point shot, has lauded Knueppel's game. "He can obviously shoot the ball at a high level," Curry observed after a recent game against the Hornets. "You can’t really leave him open at all as he has such a quick release and shoots with confidence. And his playmaking is very underrated. His game just suits the NBA style."
Donovan Mitchell echoed similar sentiments, marveling at Knueppel's effortless ability. "For him to be a rookie and be able to go out there and make it look effortless... We know he can shoot the ball, right? But I think him getting to the mid-range and play develop in the small pick-and-roll that is something I think is really unique about his game is being able to do that and create advantages for himself.” These endorsements from elite talent solidify Knueppel's place as a genuine superstar in the making.
