Kon Knueppel Sets NBA Record
In an impressive milestone for a rookie, Kon Knueppel, playing for the Charlotte Hornets, has shattered records by becoming the quickest player in NBA history to achieve 200 three-pointers. This achievement came during the Hornets’ dominant 131-99 victory against the Chicago Bulls, marking the Bulls’ tenth consecutive loss, a streak not seen since the 2018-19 season.
Game Highlights
The 20-year-old Knueppel showcased his shooting prowess with three successful three-point shots, contributing to his total of 21 points for the night. Brandon Miller also shone in the game, scoring 23 points, assisting the Hornets in securing their eighth consecutive road win.
Remarkably, Knueppel hit the 200 three-pointer milestone in just his 58th game, placing him as only the second rookie ever to reach such a mark. Currently leading the league with 201 three-pointers, he is on the verge of surpassing Keegan Murray’s record of 206 for the most three-pointers made by a rookie in a single season, set during the 2022-23 campaign.
Knueppel’s Background
Knueppel’s journey began at Duke University, where he showcased his talent before being selected fourth overall by the Hornets in the 2025 NBA Draft. Head coach Charles Lee praised Knueppel’s contributions, stating:
“It’s exciting and refreshing to coach him. When you have a player that talented yet humble, it positively influences the entire culture of our organization.”
Other NBA Action
Additionally, in other NBA action, the Cleveland Cavaliers were revitalized by the return of James Harden, who scored 20 points to help lead the team to a 109-94 victory against the New York Knicks. This win brought both teams to a balanced record of 37 wins and 22 losses, with the Knicks maintaining their position as third in the Eastern Conference. Harden, who joined the Cavaliers after leaving the Los Angeles Clippers, emphasized the importance of continuous improvement, stating:
“We’re working to build something special, and each game is an opportunity to get better. Tonight was a good step for us.”
Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics strengthened their second-place standing with a 97-81 win against the Phoenix Suns, while the Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Indiana Pacers 135-114, a team now languishing at the bottom of the Eastern Conference after a recent NBA Finals appearance. In the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder maintained their lead with a 116-107 victory over the Toronto Raptors, while the Los Angeles Lakers fell narrowly to the Orlando Magic, losing 110-109. The Minnesota Timberwolves also clinched victory over the Portland Trail Blazers with a score of 124-121.
