Breaking news from Durham has college basketball fans buzzing: Duke freshman standout Kon Knueppel has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. The sharpshooting forward announced his decision on social media. The announcement doesn’t come as a surprise to Duke faithful, who watched Knueppel’s stock soar throughout his freshman campaign.
Averaging 14.4 points per game while shooting 40.6% from beyond the arc, Knueppel established himself as one of the sport’s best perimeter threats. His decision puts him at the forefront of one of the most talent-rich draft classes in recent memory.
Duke Forward Kon Knueppel Declares For 2025 NBA Draft
Kon Knueppel’s decision comes while his star teammate Cooper Flagg, widely projected as the potential No. 1 overall pick, has yet to officially declare for the draft.
Throughout the season, they formed the backbone of Duke’s offensive attack, with Knueppel serving as the second-leading scorer behind the versatile Flagg. Their strong chemistry on the court was a key factor in winning the ACC tournament championship.
Forever a Blue Devil. Taking the Brotherhood with me to the next chapter. #NBADraft pic.twitter.com/bE09xX1Dzo
— Kon II Knueppel (@Kon2Knueppel) April 16, 2025
The 6’8″ sharpshooter saved his best for the biggest stage, earning ACC tournament MVP honors after a spectacular three-game stretch where he accumulated 63 points, 17 rebounds, and 14 assists.
His ability to space the floor with elite shooting while also contributing as a playmaker in pick-and-roll situations has NBA scouts salivating over his professional potential and versatility at the next level.
Kon Knueppel’s NBA Draft Stock and Projections
Multiple mock drafts currently have Knueppel slotted as a potential top-10 selection, with his shooting prowess being the primary skill that has evaluators excited.
In the modern NBA, where floor spacing is paramount, Knueppel’s 40.6% mark from three-point territory as a freshman represents an immediately translatable NBA skill that teams covet in wing prospects.
The 2025 NBA Draft Lottery will be held on May 12, and the NBA Draft Combine will take place from May 11 to May 18 in Chicago. The draft will occur on June 25-26 in New York.
Kon Knueppel NBA Draft Projections: 5 Potential Landing Spots for the Duke Forward
Currently, the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets all have the best chances of landing a high draft pick, which would allow them to select Knueppel if their spot in the draft position aligns with his projection. Knueppel’s departure could signal the beginning of roster changes for Duke basketball next season.
While Blue Devils fans will certainly miss watching Knueppel’s shooting prowess in Cameron Indoor Stadium, they can take solace in knowing their program continues its tradition of developing NBA-ready talent. As Knueppel embarks on this next chapter, he carries with him the Brotherhood that defines Duke basketball’s enduring legacy.
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