Hornets' Rookie Kon Knueppel Breaks Team 3-Point Record

The rise of a shooting star as the young player sets a new franchise mark in just his first season.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:56pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a basketball player's shooting motion, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives, conveying the dynamism and skill of three-point shooting in the NBA.A cubist interpretation of a young NBA player's record-breaking three-point shooting, capturing the dynamic energy and precision of the modern game.Charlotte Today

Charlotte Hornets' rookie Kon Knueppel has etched his name into the franchise's history books, becoming the team's leader in three-pointers made in a single season. In a game against the Phoenix Suns, Knueppel showcased his exceptional shooting prowess, sinking 4 three-pointers and scoring 20 points to surpass the previous record holder, Keegan Murray, in just 59 games played.

Why it matters

Knueppel's record-breaking performance is a testament to the evolving nature of the NBA, where long-range shooting has become increasingly crucial. His rapid rise to the top of the three-point leaderboard reflects the modern game's emphasis on precision and skill from beyond the arc, reshaping basketball strategy.

The details

With 8:25 left in the fourth quarter, Knueppel sank the three-pointer that not only secured his place in history but also gave the Hornets a commanding 20-point lead, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure and his potential to be a clutch player in crucial moments. The rookie's consistent three-point shooting has played a significant role in the Hornets' late-season surge, as they fight for a spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

  • Knueppel broke the Hornets' single-season three-point record in a game against the Phoenix Suns on April 11, 2026.
  • The previous record holder, Keegan Murray, took 80 games to reach the same milestone that Knueppel achieved in just 59 games.

The players

Kon Knueppel

A rookie shooting guard for the Charlotte Hornets who has set a new franchise record for three-pointers made in a single season.

Keegan Murray

The previous record holder for the most three-pointers made in a single season by a Charlotte Hornets player.

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What’s next

With five games remaining in the regular season, the Hornets find themselves in a play-in position, fighting for a spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs. If Knueppel continues his stellar form, the team has every reason to be optimistic about their postseason chances.

The takeaway

Kon Knueppel's record-breaking season is a sign of a bright future, not just for the Hornets but also for the NBA's new generation of sharpshooters. This rookie is redefining what it means to be a three-point specialist in the modern game, showcasing the evolving nature of basketball strategy and the league's emphasis on long-range shooting.