Feb. 18, 2026, 11:54 a.m. ET
Kon Knueppel had a productive showing at NBA All-Star Weekend, and the Charlotte Hornets rookie even walked away with high praise from two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Knueppel tipped off the festivities by tallying four points, three rebounds and one assist in the Rising Stars Game on Friday. He followed that performance by finishing third in the 3-Point Contest on Saturday, tying the best finish by a player in franchise history.
Sprinkled in throughout his jam-packed schedule was a visit with the Milwaukee Bucks superstar at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Antetokounmpo was captured on a video posted by the NBA, commending Knueppel for his rookie campaign.
You’re probably one of the smartest rookies I’ve ever seen, like the way you play the game. I can tell you grew up with brothers and dad, of course, I was the same way, but you’re probably one of the most competitive players that I’ve seen as a rookie. Usually, guys have to figure out how to play because the NBA — (compared to) college or Europe — is totally different. You already got it, and you’re only gonna get better.
Knueppel is averaging 18.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.6 assists while shooting 43.1% from 3-point range in 54 appearances this season with the Hornets. He is second in the league in total 3s (183) and second in the rookie class in scoring.
Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!
The fourth overall pick in December became the fastest player in history to reach 100 career 3-pointers, doing so in 29 total games. He is currently on pace to shatter the rookie record for a season, set by Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray in 2022-23 (206).
Knueppel has established himself as one of the top rookies in recent memory and has impressed those who have watched him. As a Milwaukee native, receiving such approval from Antetokounmpo will likely be something Knueppel remembers for a long time.