Kon Knueppel, a freshman at Duke and a likely first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, chose not to participate in shooting drills or athletic testing during the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago.
His recent ankle sprain, which was the reason for this choice, has sparked speculation about how it would affect his draft stock.
Kon Knueppel Sidelined at NBA Draft Combine Due to Ankle Injury
According to his agent, Mark Bartelstein, Knueppel is currently functioning at about 85% health after suffering an ankle sprain three weeks before the combine. To make sure he is fully recovered for his pro day later this week, it was decided to skip the testing and drills.
NEWS: Duke’s Kon Knueppel did not participate in the athletic testing or shooting drills portions of the NBA Draft Combine due to an injury, agent Mark Bartelstein told ESPN.
“Kon sprained his ankle 3 weeks ago and is not all the way back yet,” Bartelstein said. “He’s at 85% now… pic.twitter.com/DbZc2SKkj4
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 13, 2025
While Knueppel did attend the combine and was measured at 6’5″ without shoes and weighed 219 pounds, his inability to exhibit his athleticism and shooting prowess could leave some scouts with unresolved worries.
Despite the setback at the combine, Knueppel had a tremendous freshman season at Duke, averaging 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists while starting all 39 games. His efficiency was especially remarkable with an outstanding 40.6% shooting percentage from beyond the arc and 47.9% from the field.
Additionally, he showed excellent decision-making skills and a high basketball IQ, winning the MVP of the ACC Tournament. According to many observers, his stature for a wing, shooting prowess, and offensive skill set make him a lottery pick.
Potential Impact on Knueppel’s Draft Stock
NBA teams have a lot of work to review from Knueppel’s stellar rookie campaign, but his lack of combine testing may cause his draft predictions to shift further.
While teams that value his shown shooting skills and offensive feel would not be as concerned, those that prioritize agility and instant physical preparedness might be slightly more reluctant. His upcoming pro day will be vital for him to demonstrate his health and reassert his lottery potential.
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It might alleviate worries about his absence from the combine if he does well and displays shooting and movement.
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