Kon Knueppel Sets New NBA Rookie Record for Made 3-Pointers
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Charlotte Hornets wing Kon Knueppel became the NBA’s new rookie long-range king on Thursday night, drilling his 207th three-pointer of the season in a 133-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers.
The record-breaking shot came in the third quarter off a pass from former Duke teammate Sion James, capping a night in which Knueppel hit 8 of 12 attempts from beyond the arc and finished with 28 points. He opened the game with five triples before halftime.
Speed to the Mark
Knueppel reached the milestone in just 59 games; the previous record holder, Sacramento’s Keegan Murray, needed 80 games to set the old mark last season.
Elite Efficiency
Thursday’s outburst pushed the 19-year-old’s season total to 209 made threes, the highest figure in the league, while he is converting at a 44 percent clip.
‘Just Trying to Make the Right Play’
“Just trying to make the right basketball play,” Knueppel told reporters afterward, adding that he was unaware he had reached the record. “Honestly, I thought I needed seven.”
Head coach Charles Lee praised the rookie’s unassuming approach, calling it “contagious.” Teammates highlighted Knueppel’s off-ball movement and rapid release; according to the club, 93 percent of his threes have been assisted.
Wider Recognition
Golden State superstar Stephen Curry also weighed in, complimenting Knueppel’s quick release and what he called “underrated playmaking.”
Rookie of the Year Race Heats Up
With the Hornets hovering near the Eastern Conference play-in positions, Knueppel’s latest feat intensifies the Rookie of the Year conversation between him and former Duke roommate Cooper Flagg.
Charlotte’s next chance to climb the standings comes Saturday when the team visits Atlanta.
Source: Hoops Wire
