The 2026 NBA Three-Point Contest is set to take place on February 14. The annual event features elite deep-range shooters from around the league.
Per NBA insider Chris Haynes, Charlotte Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel has accepted an invite to participate in the three-point contest. The 20-year-old guard has quickly earned a reputation for being a top-level scorer from deep range.
With a total of 166, Knueppel is tied with Donte DiVincenzo for the most three-pointers made this season. Donovan Mitchell holds the top spot at 178, while Stephen Curry trails shortly behind at 175.
In terms of accuracy, Knueppel is sinking 42.5 percent of his shots from outside the arc. The figure puts him within the top 20 performers for this season.
Rookie of the Year Contender
Knueppel was drafted by the Hornets with the No. 4 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. When the Hornets won the 2025 Summer League Championship, the Duke alum was named the tournament MVP.
In his rookie year, Knueppel is averaging 18.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists over 50 games. He is leading his rookie class in total points, demonstrating an immediate impact on his team.
With a 23-28 record, the Hornets hold the 11th spot in the Eastern Conference standings. The franchise is on a seven-game winning streak.
Knueppel has proven to be a serious contender for Rookie of the Year honors. The Wisconsin native is ranked No. 2 on the latest edition of the NBA's Kia Rookie Ladder. He was also named the Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month for November, December, and January.
Along with his reported involvement in the three-point contest, Knueppel is set to compete in the Rising Stars event. As a member of Team T-Mac, he will be playing alongside Kel'el Ware, Tre Johnson, Alex Sarr, Ajay Mitchell, Jaylon Tyson, and Cam Spencer.
The NBA has not officially announced the eight participants for the upcoming three-point contest. The reigning champion is Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro.
Newsweek