The 2024-25 Duke Blue Devils roster ranks among the best the prestigious program has ever assembled. While Cooper Flagg stood out as the star, Kon Knueppel proved to be an equally vital contributor.
The Duke sharpshooter, projected as a top-10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has quickly established himself as a deadly three-point threat and is drawing comparisons to former first-round picks De’Andre Hunter and Gradey Dick.
NBA Assistant Coach Compares Kon Knueppel With De’Andre Hunter and Gradey Dick
Hunter was selected fourth overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019 and, after being traded to the Atlanta Hawks, won an NBA Championship as a rookie. He has steadily developed into an efficient shooter, and an anonymous NBA scout told HoopsHype that Knueppel could become an even better shooter than Hunter.
“He’s not as good defensively or as big as De’Andre Hunter, but I think he’s a better shooting version of him,” the assistant coach said. “Knueppel really impressed me during the Kansas game…he showcased surprising ability, particularly in his ability to create his own shot. He’s much better off the dribble than people give him credit for. And obviously, you’re getting a lights-out shooter, but he’s more than just that. I think he’ll be better than great.”
During his lone season in college, Knueppel hit 40.6% of his 3s, while also sinking 91.4% of his free throws. While a comparison with Hunter shows Knueppel’s floor, he is a player who could threaten the 50/40/90 club during his prime.
Kon Knueppel played an essential role for Duke, shouldering significant shot-creation duties while spacing the floor and holding his own defensively. He's an outstanding passer, especially out of pick and roll, with a unique combination of competitiveness, feel and versatility. pic.twitter.com/Z5R7Mg1kye
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress)
Knueppel owns a 6’7″ frame, drawing comparisons with Dick, however, the assistant coach noted that he had more faith in Knueppel making a mark in the NBA.
“Both he and Gradey Dick have similar body types; he’s not as skinny as Gradey but they’re comparable. Both are decent college scorers, but I have more faith in Knueppel’s ability to translate that to the next level,”
“I think he contributes more than Gradey does in other aspects of the game. He’s a little thicker than Gradey, which helps him defensively. Grady was a really good rebounder, but as pros, being a good rebounder doesn’t always fall on your shoulders.”
Those are intriguing comparisons for a player of Knueppel’s caliber, but the Duke standout has grown up studying the game of Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson and Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III.
SEE MORE: 2025 NBA Mock Draft — Shocking Lottery Results Shake Up Top of the First Round
Wizards Projected To Land Knueppel at No. 6 in PFSN’s Mock Draft
Knueppel is projected to go No. 6 overall to the Washington Wizards in PFSN’s latest NBA mock draft. Here is what our Brandon Austin had to say about the projected pick:
“The Washington Wizards are in dire need of a franchise-changing talent, so falling to No. 6 overall in the draft is devastating. But the front office doesn’t have time to throw a pity party,” Austin wrote. “In Kon Knueppel, they can land a high-floor wing who brings elite shooting, toughness, and a polished offensive skill set that complements their young core.
“Knueppel is arguably the best shooter in the draft, with deep range, a lightning-quick release, and elite touch. His shooting splits (47.9% FG, 40.6% 3PT, 91.4% FT) speak for themselves.
“For a rebuilding Wizards team, Knueppel offers a blend of immediate impact and long-term reliability. He can slot in seamlessly as a floor-spacer, but he’s more than just a spot-up shooter. He thrives in the halfcourt, using ball fakes, footwork, and physicality to create scoring opportunities even without top-tier athleticism.
“Knueppel’s lack of top-end athleticism may limit his defensive versatility and shot creation at the next level. But his physical toughness and positioning help mitigate those weaknesses, and his sharpshooting ability opens the floor for others. Knueppel may not be the flashiest prospect in the lottery, but he’s the kind of player who makes winning plays and can help elevate a team with little direction.”
