Knueppel’s Dominant Summer League Run Ends in Controversy
The Charlotte Hornets may not be known for success in the NBA, but their 2025 Summer League performance was a rare high point. Led by No. 4 overall pick Kon Knueppel, the Hornets secured their first-ever Summer League title, defeating the Sacramento Kings 83–78 to cap off a perfect 6-0 run.
Knueppel, a former Duke standout, lived up to the hype. Across five games, he averaged 15.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. He also posted a +16 plus/minus, one of the highest in the league, and was named Summer League Championship MVP.
Despite his impact, the NBA shocked fans by omitting Knueppel from the All-Summer League first team, placing him instead on the second team. First-team honors went to:
- Nique Clifford (Kings)
- Kyle Filipowski (Jazz)
- David Jones Garcia (Spurs)
- Jordan Miller (Clippers)
- Terrence Shannon Jr. (Timberwolves)
The #NBA2KSummerLeague First Team!
— NBA (@NBA) July 22, 2025
Nique Clifford
Kyle Filipowski
David Jones Garcia
Jordan Miller
Terrence Shannon Jr. pic.twitter.com/Ub3T59B8gO
Fans Erupt Over the Snub
The decision didn’t sit well with NBA fans, who quickly voiced their outrage on social media. Many argued that Knueppel’s leadership, stats, and MVP honor made him a lock for the first team.
“No @Kon2Knueppel is nasty work,” one user posted.
“Kon is the definition of turning your haters into motivators. He’s forever getting robbed of awards,” said another.
“Nique Clifford did nothing in semis or final. Kon was MVP and led in +/- for players who played 3+ games,” one fan pointed out.
Even Knueppel’s Hornets teammate KJ Simpson, also named to the second team, was mentioned in comparison to some of the selected first-teamers. Critics questioned why two players from a 6-0 championship squad were overlooked.
While the NBA’s decision raised eyebrows, it may only fuel Knueppel moving forward. If his Summer League showing is any indication, the 19-year-old is poised to make a major impact in the regular season.
For the Hornets, the spotlight finally shifts toward optimism. And for Knueppel, the snub may be the best motivation yet.
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