Duke freshman Kon Knueppel to enter NBA draft

Steve Wiseman, The News & Observer on Apr 16, 2025

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DURHAM, N.C. — Kon Knueppel is the first of what’s expected to be a series of Duke freshmen to announce he’s leaving school early for the NBA.

A 6-7 guard, Knueppel made his widely expected news public on Wednesday in a social media post, saying he’s giving up his final three seasons of college eligibility to turn pro.

Multiple NBA draft analysts project Knueppel to be selected in the draft’s top 10 picks.

“Forever a Blue Devil,” Knueppel wrote on social media. “Taking the Brotherhood with me to the next chapter.”

Knueppel joined 7-2 center Khaman Maluach as freshmen who started every game for Duke this season. They, along with national player of the year Cooper Flagg, helped the Blue Devils (35-4) win the ACC regular-season and tournament championships and reach the Final Four. Flagg is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the draft while Maluach is also a projected lottery pick.

A Milwaukee native, Knueppel averaged 14.4 points and four rebounds per game while making 47.9% of his shots from the field, including 40.6% of his 3-pointers. Knueppel also averaged 2.7 assists a game.

He was named all-ACC second team and, with Flagg out with a sprained ankle, was named ACC Tournament MVP, leading the Blue Devils to the league title in Charlotte.

“I thought we had a phenomenal year,” Knueppel said after Houston beat the Blue Devils, 70-67, in the Final Four. “It was a joy to be a part of. I would just hope that the fans and everybody appreciates how we gave it our all every night and appreciate how we played together.”