Kon Knueppel is proud of his skills as a shooter ‘I’m one of the best in the world’

Kon Knueppel is proud of his skills as a shooter ‘I’m one of the best in the world’ originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Charlotte Hornets hit the jackpot in the 2025 NBA Draft when they selected Kon Knueppel with the fourth overall pick. It is one of the most impactful selections from his class because he has turned into a vital piece for the Hornets’ present and long-term future.

Knueppel is a top candidate for the Rookie of the Year against his fellow Duke University product, Cooper Flagg. While Flagg’s defense is his biggest strength, Knueppel also has a superb strength: his three-point shooting.

Knueppel is confident in the work he’s put in as a shooter

Early in the season, the Hornets were not performing well. However, they did have Knueppel performing at a solid level. That was already a promising start for the rookie, but he has only improved since then.

With head coach Charles Lee in charge, the Hornets have become one of the most impressive teams since 2026 started. They had a fantastic nine-game winning streak that saw them beat all types of teams. Knueppel played a huge role in that streak alongside fellow building blocks LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller.

MORE: Reggie Miller sees Kon Knueppel as one of the favorites to win the Three-Point Contest

Now that it is All-Star Weekend, Knueppel is in the spotlight. He is one of the participants in the Three-Point Contest. Due to the reputation he has built in his rookie season as a sharpshooter, Knueppel has become a strong contender to win the event.

The Hornets’ rookie is prepared to fight against the big names, as he believes he is one of the best the league has to offer when it comes to three-point shooting.

«I take pride in my shot; it’s something I put a lot of time into. I think I’m one of the best in the world,» Knueppel said ahead of the Rising Stars game.

Of course, he is more than just a shooter, but it is his biggest strength. That means he has staying power in the NBA because he will be a valuable piece for the Hornets as a shooter and a connective piece for the offense. As long as he plays the way he has played, he won’t have any trouble standing out in the league.