Duke Freshmen Phenoms Flagg and Knueppel Duel in Rookie NBA Season

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel, who played together as freshmen for the Duke Blue Devils last season, are now facing off as NBA rookies. Flagg was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, while Knueppel was selected 4th overall by the Charlotte Hornets. The two have been trading the lead in key rookie statistical categories all season, providing an entertaining back-and-forth that has Duke fans closely following their progress.

Why it matters

The friendly rivalry between Flagg and Knueppel is a feel-good story for Duke basketball fans, who saw the two young stars lead the team last season. Their success as NBA rookies validates the Blue Devils' program and demonstrates the high-level talent they are able to develop.

The details

Flagg was selected 1st overall by the Dallas Mavericks, while Knueppel went 4th to the Charlotte Hornets in the 2025 NBA Draft. Throughout the current NBA season, the two former Duke teammates have been trading the lead in key rookie statistical categories like total points and points per game. Knueppel currently holds a narrow lead in total points, while Flagg's 18.8 points per game edges out Knueppel's 18.7.

• Flagg and Knueppel played together as freshmen for the Duke Blue Devils last season.
• Flagg was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
• Knueppel was selected 4th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2025 NBA Draft.