Charlotte Hornets Select Kon Knueppel with No. 4 Pick in 2025 NBA Draft
Charlotte Hornets Select Kon Knueppel with No. 4 Pick in 2025 NBA Draft originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
With Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and VJ Edgecombe off the board in the top three picks of the 2025 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Hornets faced a tough decision at No. 4.
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Ultimately, they selected Duke freshman Kon Knueppel, a 6-foot-5 small forward known for his elite perimeter shooting and high basketball IQ. While some anticipated Charlotte might take a swing on the higher-upside Ace Bailey or consider trade-down options, the Hornets opted for stability and fit with Knueppel.
Knueppel's selection follows a pattern after taking the raw but promising Tidjane Salaun in last year's draft, Charlotte is now adding a more polished, plug-and-play wing to complement their young core of LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Mark Williams. Knueppel's shooting ability immediately addresses a need for Charlotte. The team was ranked near the bottom of the league in three-point percentage last season. His presence gives the Hornets a dependable floor spacer and secondary playmaker, who can thrive off the ball or initiate momentum when needed.
The pick also reflects Charlotte's trust in Knueppel's readiness and leadership. ESPN's Jonathan Givony and other analysts had hinted at Bailey potentially slipping due to fit concerns and lack of pre-draft workouts with certain teams, including the Hornets.
That opened the door for Knueppel, whose all-around offensive versatility, mid-range touch, strength on drives, and pick-and-roll vision made him a favorite.
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While not an explosive athlete, Knueppel has a sharp feel for the game, allowing him to make timely decisions and find scoring windows. His average wingspan (6'6') and athleticism may limit his defensive upside, but the Hornets are banking on his fit alongside Ball and Miller to create an efficient, well-spaced offensive attack.
Knueppel joins a promising starting five that includes Ball, Miller, Williams, and Miles Bridges. With health and internal development, Charlotte could take a significant leap in the Eastern Conference. The Hornets made a calculated and safe pick in a player who fits their needs and raises their floor.
Related: Fresh Intel Reveals Hornets Locked on Duke's Kon Knueppel at No. 4
If Knueppel becomes the reliable sharpshooter, this pick could help stabilize a franchise hungry for success.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 26, 2025, where it first appeared.
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