Rookie Sensation Kon Knueppel Shatters NBA Three-Point Record in Dominant Hornets Win
In a historic performance that electrified the basketball world, Charlotte Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel has officially broken the NBA single-season record for three-pointers by a rookie. The record-setting moment came during a commanding 133-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night, with the Associated Press reporting the feat occurred on Friday, February 27, 2026, Philippine time.
A Record-Breaking Night for the Duke Standout
Needing just six three-pointers to surpass the previous rookie mark of 206 set by Keegan Murray in the 2022-23 season, Knueppel delivered an outstanding 8-for-12 performance from beyond the arc. This incredible shooting display elevated his season total to an unprecedented 209 three-pointers, achieved in a mere 59 games. For context, the overall NBA single-season record stands at 402, held by Golden State Warriors legend Stephen Curry.
The record-breaking shot unfolded with 9:41 remaining in the fourth quarter. Knueppel executed a clever ball fake to create separation from defender Quintin Jackson, dribbled to his left, and launched a three-pointer that tantalizingly bounced around the rim before dropping through the net. This pivotal moment capped off a night where the No. 4 overall pick from Duke University showcased his elite shooting prowess, finishing with 28 points and leading his team to a decisive win.
Hornets' Surge and Team Contributions
Knueppel's record-setting performance is a key factor in the Charlotte Hornets' recent success, as the team has now won 12 of its last 15 games, including an impressive nine consecutive road victories. Teammate Brandon Miller led the scoring charge with 33 points, while the Pacers struggled defensively, allowing at least 130 points for the third straight game—a rare occurrence in franchise history.
Indiana's woes were particularly evident in the second quarter, where they shot a dismal 3-for-18, allowing Charlotte to build a commanding 67-46 halftime lead. Miller further ignited the Hornets in the third quarter, draining four consecutive three-pointers to extend the advantage to 107-82 entering the final period. For the Pacers, Andrew Nembhard paced the team with 20 points, and Micah Potter added 19, but it wasn't enough to overcome Charlotte's offensive firepower.
Around the League: Other Notable NBA Results
In other NBA action, the Phoenix Suns edged the Los Angeles Lakers 113-110 thanks to a clutch three-pointer from Royce O'Neale with just 0.9 seconds left. Grayson Allen scored 28 points for the short-handed Suns, who nearly collapsed after giving up a 12-point lead late in the game. Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 41 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists, but Austin Reaves missed a potential game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer.
Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets staged a remarkable comeback, overcoming a 19-point deficit to defeat the Orlando Magic 113-108. Kevin Durant erupted for a season-high 40 points, with 26 coming in the second half, while Reed Sheppard added 20 points off the bench, including five three-pointers in the latter half. Desmond Bane led Orlando with 30 points, and Paolo Banchero contributed 19 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds.
Additional results from around the league include the Philadelphia 76ers defeating the Miami Heat 124-117, the Atlanta Hawks beating the Washington Wizards 126-96, the San Antonio Spurs winning 126-110 at Brooklyn, the Sacramento Kings topping the Dallas Mavericks 130-121, the Portland Trail Blazers beating the Chicago Bulls 121-112, the New Orleans Pelicans defeating the Utah Jazz 129-118, and the Minnesota Timberwolves edging the Los Angeles Clippers 94-88.
This night of basketball not only highlighted individual brilliance but also underscored the dynamic and competitive nature of the NBA season, with rookies like Kon Knueppel making their mark on history.
