Kon Knueppel is giving former Duke teammate Cooper Flagg a challenge in NBA Rookie of the Year race
January 30, 2026
Cooper Flagg entered the season as the favorite for NBA Rookie of the Year, but his former college roommate, Kon Knueppel, is making waves. Knueppel is having a standout rookie season with the Charlotte Hornets, averaging 18.9 points per game and ranking third in the league for 3-pointers made. On Thursday, Knueppel scored a career-high 34 points against Flagg’s team, leading the Hornets to a dramatic win. Despite Flagg’s impressive 49-point game, Knueppel is closing the gap in the Rookie of the Year race. Both players continue to impress while maintaining a strong friendship.