Kon Knueppel’s Fast Start Highlights Busy Week for Charlotte Hornets
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CHARLOTTE, N.C., Nov. 17, 2025 — Rookie guard Kon Knueppel has thrust himself into a crowded Rookie of the Year chase, averaging 17.2 points per game and a league-leading 41 made three-pointers through the first month of the season.
Head coach Charles Lee said the 19-year-old’s preparation has earned him play calls to open games. “He comes in the building every day and takes everything with a seriousness, a competitiveness, an obsession to want to get better,” Lee said. “That’s why he’s so fearless when the game starts.”
The Milwaukee native showcased that mindset Friday in his first NBA appearance at Fiserv Forum, scoring a career-high 32 points and drilling a late jumper to force overtime in a road win over the Bucks. Although Knueppel struggled in Saturday’s loss to Oklahoma City, Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praised the rookie’s “shooting gravity” and feel in pick-and-roll situations.
Injury Updates
LaMelo Ball returned Friday after missing five games with a right ankle impingement, logging 27 minutes before sitting out overtime. The Hornets held the All-Star guard out Saturday as part of a cautious plan to keep him available long-term. “Minutes going forward, we have to be mindful of putting him in the best position to be available for as many games as possible,” Lee said.
Brandon Miller, sidelined since Oct. 25 by a left shoulder subluxation, has resumed basketball activities and was assigned to the G League’s Greensboro Swarm for practice. The second-year forward has appeared in only two games this season.
Veteran Presence
Lee labeled offseason acquisition Pat Connaughton “an All-Star of his role.” The 32-year-old swingman is averaging 3.7 points in 9.4 minutes while shooting 37.5% from deep, providing leadership to one of the NBA’s youngest rosters.
Source: Hoops Rumors
