It is predicted that Kon Knueppel will join a $163 million star on a new NBA team.

Kon Knueppel, a name that has been making waves in basketball circles over the past year, is quickly emerging as one of the top prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft. His journey from a high school standout to a key player at Duke University has been marked by rapid growth and impressive performances that have drawn the attention of NBA scouts. Known for his scoring ability, basketball IQ, and versatility on the court, Knueppel’s transition to the NBA seems all but inevitable, with predictions suggesting he could soon join a $163 million star on a new NBA team.

Early Life and High School Career

Kon Knueppel’s basketball journey began in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he was born on August 3, 2005. Raised in a family that appreciated the game of basketball, Kon’s early exposure to the sport set the stage for a successful career. He attended Wisconsin Lutheran High School, where he quickly made a name for himself. His freshman year saw him averaging 10.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, a solid start for a young player. However, it was his subsequent seasons that truly set him apart.

As a junior, Knueppel’s averages skyrocketed to 19.7 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. He became a key player for Wisconsin Lutheran and was instrumental in leading his team to several state playoff appearances. His senior year was even more remarkable, as he averaged 26.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. These numbers were not only a testament to his skill but also to his work ethic and leadership on the court. By the time he was named Wisconsin’s Mr. Basketball in 2024, there was little doubt that Knueppel was one of the most promising players in the nation.

Knueppel’s high school career culminated in a state championship for Wisconsin Lutheran High School in 2024, solidifying his place as one of the top players in the state. His performances in key games helped elevate him to national attention, and college recruiters were quick to take notice.

College Career at Duke University

In June 2024, Kon Knueppel made the decision to play college basketball at Duke University, joining a team that featured several highly touted recruits, including the consensus No. 1 player in the 2024 class, Cooper Flagg. This move was seen as a natural progression for Knueppel, who was eager to continue his development and compete at the highest level. The decision to attend Duke was also influenced by the university’s reputation for developing NBA talent, something that Knueppel would benefit from immensely.

Knueppel made an immediate impact upon joining the Blue Devils. In his debut game against Maine on November 4, 2024, he showcased his scoring prowess, dropping 22 points and grabbing four rebounds. This performance set the tone for the rest of the season, as Knueppel continued to impress both fans and scouts alike. His versatility allowed him to play multiple positions, which became evident as the season progressed. Whether it was as a guard or forward, Knueppel’s ability to stretch the floor and make plays for himself and his teammates made him a valuable asset to Duke’s offense.

Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Knueppel continued to build upon his early success. A standout performance came on December 21, 2024, against Georgia Tech, where he scored 18 points and showed off his ability to attack the rim and knock down shots from beyond the arc. His game against Pittsburgh on January 7, 2025, was another highlight, where he finished with 17 points and demonstrated his growth as a defender. Over the course of the season, Knueppel’s all-around game improved, and his ability to contribute in multiple areas made him one of the most dynamic players on the team.

Knueppel’s crowning achievement came during the 2025 ACC Tournament. After Duke made it to the championship game, Knueppel put on an impressive performance, scoring 18 points in the title game against Louisville. His performance earned him the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award, a testament to his rise as one of the premier players in college basketball. This performance, coupled with his consistent play throughout the season, only further solidified his status as a top NBA prospect.

NBA Draft Projections and Scouting Reports

As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, Knueppel’s name has been consistently mentioned as a likely lottery pick. NBA scouts and analysts have praised his ability to score from all areas of the court. His shooting ability, particularly from beyond the arc, has been one of his standout traits. Knueppel is also known for his basketball IQ and ability to make plays in clutch situations, which has made him a reliable option for Duke’s offense.

Despite his success, Knueppel still faces some questions regarding his athleticism. While he possesses excellent skills on offense, some scouts have noted that he could improve his lateral quickness and explosiveness. These are areas where Knueppel will likely need to focus as he prepares for the next level. However, his ability to shoot the ball, coupled with his basketball intelligence, gives him the potential to thrive in the NBA.

Several mock drafts have projected Knueppel to be selected in the lottery, with some analysts placing him as high as the ninth overall pick. Sam Vecenie, a respected NBA draft expert, suggested in an October 2024 projection that the San Antonio Spurs could select Knueppel with the ninth pick. The Spurs, who have been rebuilding their team around young talent like Victor Wembanyama, could view Knueppel as a valuable addition to their roster, bringing both scoring and versatility to the team.

Other teams are also taking a serious interest in Knueppel. For instance, the Brooklyn Nets have been mentioned as a potential landing spot for him. The Nets are in the midst of a rebuild and could use a player like Knueppel to help them develop into a more competitive team. His shooting ability and basketball IQ would fit well into Brooklyn’s offensive system, making him an intriguing option for the team.

The Miami Heat, another team rumored to be interested in Knueppel, are a strong contender in the Eastern Conference and are known for their player development. Miami has a history of developing shooters, and Knueppel’s ability to space the floor and create his own shot would make him an excellent fit alongside the Heat’s established stars. Additionally, the Heat are known for their defensive prowess, and Knueppel’s growth in that area would be vital for his long-term success in Miami.

Potential NBA Destinations

As the draft nears, various NBA teams are being linked to Kon Knueppel as a potential target. His scoring ability, basketball IQ, and potential to develop into a more dynamic defender have made him an attractive option for teams looking to add talent to their rosters.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Knueppel’s potential NBA future is the possibility that he could join a team already featuring a high-profile star. Some reports have linked Knueppel with the possibility of playing alongside a $163 million NBA star. This could provide him with the opportunity to learn from an established player while also contributing to a team that is primed for success.

Whether it is the Spurs, Nets, Heat, or another team, Knueppel’s future in the NBA looks bright. His development at Duke has shown that he has the skills to make an immediate impact in the professional ranks, and his performances during the 2024-2025 season have cemented his place as one of the top prospects for the upcoming draft.

Comparison to Other Top Prospects

While Cooper Flagg, his teammate at Duke, is the consensus No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Knueppel’s contributions to the Blue Devils have not gone unnoticed. In fact, some analysts consider Knueppel the team’s second-best player, a testament to his growth and development during his time at Duke. His ability to contribute in all facets of the game, from scoring to defense, makes him a versatile option for any NBA team.

Knueppel’s scoring ability has often been compared to that of other top prospects in the 2025 draft class. His ability to hit shots from all three levels, as well as his ability to create his own offense, makes him a valuable commodity. His shooting ability is particularly notable, and teams in need of a reliable scorer on the wing will likely be drawn to him. Additionally, Knueppel’s basketball IQ sets him apart from many other players in his class, allowing him to make smart decisions and contribute to his team’s success.

Kon Knueppel’s rise from a high school star in Wisconsin to a potential NBA lottery pick is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and love for the game of basketball. His performances at Duke have proven that he has the skill set to succeed at the next level, and his ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes him a highly sought-after prospect. Whether he joins a team like the San Antonio Spurs, Brooklyn Nets, or Miami Heat, Knueppel’s future in the NBA looks promising. With the right development and the opportunity to learn from established stars, he has the potential to make an immediate impact and carve out a successful career in the league.