Hornets Rookie Kon Knueppel Sets Franchise 3-Point Record

Knueppel's historic season continues as he surpasses Kemba Walker's previous mark.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:34pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball player in the act of shooting a 3-pointer, with the player's form broken down into overlapping planes of teal, purple, and gold colors.Kon Knueppel's record-breaking 3-point shooting performance is the latest highlight in the Hornets rookie's historic season.Charlotte Today

Charlotte Hornets rookie forward Kon Knueppel set a new franchise record for most 3-pointers made in a single season, hitting his 261st 3-pointer in Thursday's win over the Phoenix Suns. Knueppel, the 4th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, has emerged as a leading Rookie of the Year candidate with his impressive play helping the Hornets remain in playoff contention.

Why it matters

Knueppel's record-breaking performance is the latest milestone in what has been a historic rookie campaign. His ability to space the floor and knock down 3-pointers at a high rate has been a key factor in the Hornets' surprising success this season, as they look to make the playoffs for the first time since 2021-22.

The details

Knueppel scored 20 points and hit 4 3-pointers in the Hornets' 127-107 win over the Suns, moving him past franchise great Kemba Walker's previous single-season record of 260 3-pointers made. Knueppel, who is averaging 18.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game, has now hit the most 3-pointers ever by a rookie in a single season.

  • Knueppel set the new franchise record on Thursday, April 3, 2026.
  • The previous record of 260 3-pointers was set by Kemba Walker during the 2018-19 season.

The players

Kon Knueppel

A 21-year-old rookie forward for the Charlotte Hornets, drafted 4th overall in the 2026 NBA Draft. He has emerged as a leading Rookie of the Year candidate with his historic 3-point shooting and key role in the Hornets' surprising playoff push.

Kemba Walker

A former All-Star point guard who played for the Charlotte Hornets from 2011 to 2019, holding the franchise record for most 3-pointers made in a single season with 260 until Knueppel broke the mark.

Cooper Flagg

The rookie forward for the Dallas Mavericks, considered the favorite to win Rookie of the Year alongside Knueppel after a standout debut season.

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What’s next

Knueppel and the Hornets will look to continue their playoff push in the final weeks of the regular season, with the team currently sitting in the 8th spot in the Eastern Conference standings. Knueppel's performance down the stretch could be a key factor in determining whether Charlotte can secure a spot in the play-in tournament.

The takeaway

Kon Knueppel's record-breaking 3-point shooting performance is the latest highlight in what has been a historic rookie season. His ability to space the floor and knock down shots at a high rate has been instrumental in the Hornets' surprising success, and his strong case for Rookie of the Year will only be bolstered by this latest franchise milestone.