Hornets Coach Hails Rookie Kon Knueppel as 'F--king Killer' in Rookie of the Year Race

Knueppel's impressive debut season has him neck-and-neck with Cooper Flagg for NBA's top rookie honor.

Feb. 9, 2026 at 9:39am

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Charlotte Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel has been a standout performer in his first NBA season, leading his head coach Charles Lee to heap praise on the young star. Knueppel is currently in a tight race with Dallas Mavericks' Cooper Flagg for the NBA Rookie of the Year award, with Knueppel setting a Hornets franchise record for most three-pointers made by a rookie.

Why it matters

Knueppel's emergence as a dominant rookie has been a bright spot in the Hornets' ongoing rebuilding efforts, providing hope that the franchise is finally turning a corner after years of struggles. The Rookie of the Year race between Knueppel and Flagg has also captured the attention of NBA fans as two of the league's most promising young talents go head-to-head.

The details

In his first NBA season, Knueppel has averaged 18.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.6 assists while shooting 48.6% from the field and 42.8% from three-point range. His head coach Charles Lee has been effusive in his praise, calling Knueppel a "f--king killer" for his competitive drive and even-keeled demeanor. Knueppel is set to compete in the NBA Three-Point Contest during All-Star Weekend, further showcasing his elite shooting ability.

  • Knueppel was the 4th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
  • The Hornets have won 9 straight games to improve to 25-28 on the season.

The players

Kon Knueppel

A rookie sensation for the Charlotte Hornets, Knueppel has emerged as one of the top contenders for NBA Rookie of the Year after setting a franchise record for most three-pointers made by a rookie.

Charles Lee

The head coach of the Charlotte Hornets, Lee has been highly complimentary of Knueppel's competitive spirit and dominant play in his first NBA season.

Cooper Flagg

A rookie star for the Dallas Mavericks, Flagg is Knueppel's main competition for the NBA Rookie of the Year award this season.

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What they’re saying

“He has this bravado, this façade, where he doesn't give you much. He stays even keeled. But he's a f--king killer.”

— Charles Lee, Head Coach, Charlotte Hornets

“I didn't think I'd play in the NBA.”

— Kon Knueppel

What’s next

Knueppel will compete in the NBA Three-Point Contest during All-Star Weekend on Saturday, February 15th.

The takeaway

Kon Knueppel's breakout rookie season has been a revelation for the Charlotte Hornets, showcasing the team's promising young core and providing hope that the franchise is finally turning a corner after years of rebuilding. Knueppel's duel with Cooper Flagg for Rookie of the Year has captivated NBA fans, highlighting the league's bright future.