Hornets' Rising Star Kon Knueppel to Shine in NBA Three-Point Contest

Anticipation Builds for NBA All-Star Weekend

The stage is set for the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend, happening on February 14, and one of the most exciting events will undoubtedly be the NBA Three-Point Contest. This year, Charlotte Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel is making headlines as he prepares to showcase his exceptional shooting skills.

Knueppel: A Rookie Phenomenon

Knuppel's journey has been nothing short of impressive. Drafted as the No. 4 pick in 2025, he quickly captured the attention of basketball fans and analysts alike. A standout performance in the Summer League culminated in him earning MVP honors, and now, his talents will be on full display in the three-point competition.

“I never expected this kind of success so early in my career,” Knueppel revealed in a recent interview. “Competing against some of the best shooters in the league is a dream come true.”

This 20-year-old guard has emerged not just as a competent player but as an elite shooter, tied for the most three-pointers made this season with 166, sitting just behind Donovan Mitchell and Stephen Curry. His accuracy rate of 42.5% from beyond the arc places him in the top echelons of the league this season.

Pushing the Limits

The three-point contest is no easy task; it's a battle of skill under pressure. But Knueppel seems unfazed. His confidence shines through as he quips, “I'm looking forward to going against the best. It's all about rhythm, and I'm ready to find mine.”

Hornets' Stellar Season

Following a rough start, the Hornets are on a seven-game winning streak, greatly aided by Knueppel's stellar performances averaging 18.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists over 50 games. His fearless play has positioned him as a serious contender for the Rookie of the Year, reinforcing his reputation day by day.

Team T-Mac and Rising Stars Challenge

In addition to his three-point contest participation, Knueppel will also participate in the Rising Stars event as a member of Team T-Mac. He will be joining budding talents like Kel'el Ware and Tre Johnson. Playing alongside fellow rookies is an opportunity he is not taking lightly. “We're all hungry, and it's going to be a weekend of bonding and friendly competition,” he mentioned enthusiastically.

The Legacy Begins

While the NBA has yet to finalize the list of contestants, the anticipation surrounding Knueppel's potential performance is palpable. With reigning champion Tyler Herro looking to defend his title, fans are eager to see if the rookie can steal the spotlight. As the All-Star Weekend approaches, there's an undeniable buzz throughout the basketball community.

Looking Ahead

Knuppel's journey is only beginning, and as he steps onto the court this weekend, he stands at the forefront of a new era for the Charlotte Hornets. With fans rallying behind him, the energy in the arena promises to be electric. I can't wait to see just how far he can go when the lights shine brightest.

For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.