Hornets Rookie Sets Franchise Record in Win Over Suns

Charlotte's top pick from the 2025 NBA Draft made franchise history on Thursday.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:35pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball player in motion, with the ball and player's limbs broken down into overlapping planes of color, capturing the energy and dynamism of the record-breaking performance.Kon Knueppel's historic three-point shooting display fuels the Hornets' playoff push.Charlotte Today

Charlotte Hornets rookie guard Kon Knueppel set the franchise record for most three-pointers made in a season with 261 during the team's 127-107 win over the Phoenix Suns on Thursday. Knueppel, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, also broke the league's rookie record for three-pointers previously held by Keegan Murray of the Sacramento Kings.

Why it matters

The Hornets have exceeded expectations this season, currently holding the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Knueppel's record-breaking performance is a bright spot for a franchise that has struggled in recent years, and his continued development could be key to the team's postseason aspirations.

The details

Knueppel scored 20 points on 7-of-14 shooting, including 4-of-9 from three-point range, to go along with three rebounds and two assists in the win over the Suns. He broke the previous Hornets franchise record of 260 three-pointers in a season set by Kemba Walker in 2019.

  • Knueppel set the Hornets' franchise record for three-pointers made in a season on April 3, 2026.
  • He also broke the NBA rookie record for three-pointers earlier this season.

The players

Kon Knueppel

A 20-year-old rookie guard for the Charlotte Hornets, who was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. He has been a driving force behind the Hornets' surprising playoff push this season.

Keegan Murray

A rookie forward for the Sacramento Kings, who previously held the NBA rookie record for three-pointers made in a season before Knueppel broke it.

Kemba Walker

A former Hornets guard who held the franchise record for three-pointers made in a season with 260, which Knueppel has now surpassed.

Cooper Flagg

A rookie forward for the Dallas Mavericks, who is also a former college teammate of Knueppel's and is in competition with him for the Rookie of the Year award.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Knueppel's record-breaking performance highlights the Hornets' resurgence this season and the young star's potential to lead the franchise back to the playoffs. His sharpshooting and impact on winning have him in contention for the Rookie of the Year award, and his continued development could be crucial for Charlotte's long-term success.