Charlotte’s Kon Knueppel Sets New NBA Rookie Record for 3-Pointers

Posted : 27 February 2026

Charlotte Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel continued his sensational debut season by breaking the NBA rookie record for 3-pointers. The No. 4 pick out of Duke reached the milestone on Thursday night against the Indiana Pacers, connecting on five 3s in the first half before surpassing Keegan Murray’s previous record in the third quarter off an assist from former college teammate Sion James.

Knueppel finished the game with 28 points in Charlotte’s 133-109 win, making eight 3-pointers on 12 attempts, tying his career high and narrowly missing the all-time rookie mark. He currently leads the NBA with 209 3-pointers this season.

“It’s really just about making the right basketball play,” Knueppel said after the victory. “My teammates are setting good screens and putting me in good spots. The coaches help as well. I’m just out there trying to make the right play for my team.”

It took Murray 80 games in the 2022-23 season to set the previous record, while Knueppel accomplished the feat in just 59 games. Despite breaking the record, Knueppel admitted he hadn’t fully realized the significance of the shot.

Golden State’s Stephen Curry still holds the single-season NBA record with 402 3-pointers, but Knueppel’s 44.2% shooting from beyond the arc has made him a leading candidate for NBA Rookie of the Year. His former Duke teammate Cooper Flagg, now with the Dallas Mavericks, is considered a close rival for the honor.

Knueppel has been a key factor in Charlotte’s resurgence. The Hornets, who have not made the playoffs since the 2015-16 season, have been propelled back into contention largely thanks to his scoring and sharpshooting. Coach Charles Lee praised Knueppel for his skill and humility, saying his performance “elevates our whole culture” and inspires the organization.

A catch-and-shoot specialist, Knueppel has thrived alongside LaMelo Ball, finding open spots and converting opportunities with remarkable efficiency. According to statistics from Cleaning the Glass, 93% of his 3-pointers this season have come off assists, highlighting his effectiveness within Charlotte’s offense.

NBA veteran Stephen Curry also praised Knueppel, noting his quick release, confidence, and underrated playmaking abilities. Knueppel has drawn comparisons to other top rookies, surpassing Donovan Mitchell, who previously ranked third in 3-pointers made by a rookie.

Mitchell, now with the Cleveland Cavaliers, praised Knueppel’s versatility and shooting ability. “For him to be a rookie and make it look effortless is impressive,” Mitchell said. “He can shoot, create space, and execute in pick-and-roll situations. Watching him and Coop for Rookie of the Year will be exciting.”

With this record-breaking performance, Knueppel has firmly established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in the league, setting the stage for a promising future with the Charlotte Hornets.

Charlotte’s Kon Knueppel Sets New NBA Rookie Record for 3-Pointers

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