CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Charlotte Hornets guard Kon Knueppel set a new record with his 261st 3-point make of the season, leading his team to a 127-107 win over the Phoenix Suns. The victory puts the Hornets in contention for a possible play-in tournament game.
Kon Knueppel, a rookie, now leads the league in 3-pointers made and is competing with Dallas’ Cooper Flagg for the title of NBA Rookie of the Year. Earlier in the season, Knueppel broke the rookie record for 3-pointers in a season previously held by Keegan Murray of the Sacramento Kings.
Knueppel expressed surprise at surpassing his own expectations for his rookie season after initially feeling unsure about his performance in the offseason. He credited his success to feeling more comfortable during training camp and being named an opening night starter.
Throughout the game, fans eagerly anticipated Knueppel breaking the franchise record for 3-pointers. They rose to their feet each time he lined up a shot, only to groan in disappointment when he missed. Knueppel acknowledged the impact of the crowd’s support, finding reassurance in their reactions.
The record-breaking shot came at the end of an intense offensive sequence, with Grant Williams assisting Knueppel for the historic 3-pointer.
In addition to Knueppel’s achievement, the Suns’ Collin Gillespie also made history by setting a new franchise record with his 227th 3-pointer of the season, surpassing Quentin Richardson’s previous record of 226.
