The final days of 2025 marked a defining moment for Kon Knueppel, as the Charlotte Hornets rookie delivered a performance that placed him alongside Stephen Curry in the NBA record books.
During Wednesday night’s matchup against the Golden State Warriors, Knueppel set a new rookie benchmark by recording his most games with at least 20 points while shooting 50 per cent from the field, 40 per cent from three-point range, and 90 per cent from the free-throw line. The record had previously been held by Curry, making the achievement even more notable.
Knueppel finished the contest with 20 points on seven-of-11 shooting. He connected on four of seven attempts from beyond the arc and remained perfect at the free-throw line. The rookie also added five rebounds and eight assists, showcasing his all-around impact.
🎙️ Steph Curry on Kon Knueppel: "It's impressive. For as young as he is, he plays with such composure."
"He obviously can shoot the ball at a high level, you can't leave him open at all—he just has such a good, quick release and shoots with confidence."pic.twitter.com/RahozWqsYF
— r/CharlotteHornets (@HornetsReddit) December 31, 2025Despite his standout effort, the Charlotte Hornets fell short, losing to Golden State by seven points. Even so, Knueppel’s performance reinforced his growing reputation as one of the league’s most polished young players.
In his first NBA season, Knueppel has exceeded expectations with a skill set that translates to multiple roles. His shooting efficiency, decision-making, and composure have already made him a cornerstone for Charlotte’s long-term plans. The comparisons to Curry, once premature, are now emerging naturally through his play.
Kon Knueppel now has the most games by a rookie in NBA history with 20+ PTS on 50/40/90%.
He passes Steph Curry. pic.twitter.com/P882tp5M3f
— Real App (@realapp) December 31, 2025Knueppel also ranks among the league’s elite shooters this season. He currently sits third in total three-pointers made with 117, trailing only Curry with 119 and Donovan Mitchell with 125.
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Curry, who witnessed the milestone firsthand, praised the rookie’s maturity and skill after the game. “It’s impressive,” Curry said during his postgame remarks. “For as young as he is, he plays with a lot of composure. You can’t leave him open. His release is quick, he shoots with confidence, and his playmaking is very underrated.”
Reporter: "What was it like to share the floor with [Steph Curry], with the guy that you're probably gonna be compared to for the rest of your career?"
Kon Knueppel: "Umm, I don't know about that." 😅pic.twitter.com/L49Vf5yqTj
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 1, 2026When asked about the comparisons, Knueppel downplayed the attention and kept the focus on his team. The Hornets currently sit 12th in the Eastern Conference, but Knueppel’s rapid development has given the franchise optimism that brighter days may be ahead.
With performances like this, Kon Knueppel is no longer just a promising rookie. He is emerging as a player capable of reshaping Charlotte’s future and pushing the franchise toward genuine contention.
