Duke Freshman Kon Knueppel Declares for NBA Draft: A Rising Star Ready for the Next Level

Duke’s standout freshman Kon Knueppel declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, marking the next chapter in his promising basketball career. The 6-foot-7, 217-pound wing played a pivotal role in Duke’s Final Four run, earning ACC Tournament MVP honors and cementing himself as one of the most exciting prospects in this year’s draft class.

A Stellar Freshman Season

Knueppel was Duke’s second-leading scorer, averaging 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game while shooting an impressive 40.6% from beyond the arc. His ability to space the floor and knock down shots efficiently made him a key weapon for the Blue Devils, especially when Cooper Flagg, the team’s star player, was sidelined with an injury during the ACC Tournament.

In Duke’s Elite Eight victory against Alabama, Knueppel delivered a standout performance with 21 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds. His ability to step up in crucial moments showcased his NBA-ready skill set, drawing comparisons to Gordon Hayward and Bojan Bogdanović from draft analysts.

Draft Stock and Potential Landing Spots

Knueppel is widely projected as a top-10 pick, with many mock drafts placing him in the 6-10 range. Teams like Toronto, San Antonio, Houston, and Portland are rumored to be interested in his versatile scoring ability and high basketball IQ. His elite shooting efficiency—47.9% from the field, 40.6% from three, and 91.4% from the free-throw line—makes him an attractive a floor-spacing wing.

Emotional Farewell to Duke

Following his announcement, Knueppel took to social media to express his gratitude:
“Forever a Blue Devil. Taking the Brotherhood with me to the next chapter. #NBADraft,” he posted.

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer praised Knueppel’s competitive spirit, stating, He never shied away from the big moments. He’s a guy that is really about competition.

What’s Next?

Knueppel will participate in the NBA Draft Combine from May 11-18 in Chicago, where he’ll have the opportunity to showcase his skills in front of scouts and executives. With his combination of size, shooting ability, and basketball IQ, he is expected to make an immediate impact at the next level.

As the NBA Draft approaches on June 25, all eyes will be on Knueppel as he takes his basketball journey. Whether he lands in Houston, Toronto, or another franchise, one thing is certain—Kon Knueppel is ready for the big stage.