Kon Knueppel Foregoes College Years, Declares for.
Kon Knueppel Declares for 2025 NBA Draft: A Wisconsin Legacy Takes Flight
In a move that has sent ripples through the college basketball community, Kon Knueppel, the standout freshman from Duke University, has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. This decision marks the culmination of a remarkable journey that began in Wisconsin and has now positioned him among the top prospects in this year’s draft class.
Kon Knueppel’s basketball journey began at Wisconsin Lutheran High School in Milwaukee, where he quickly established himself as one of the state’s most promising talents. In his senior year, he led the Vikings to an undefeated 30-0 season and a Division 2 state championship, earning the title of Wisconsin MaxPreps Player of the Year. During that season, he averaged 25.9 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, showcasing his all-around skills and leadership on the court. (Kon Knueppel named 2023-24 Wisconsin MaxPreps High School Basketball Player of the Year)
His exceptional performance in high school garnered national attention, and he was ranked as a five-star recruit. This led to his commitment to Duke University, where he joined a program with a rich history of developing NBA talent.
At Duke, Knueppel wasted no time making an impact. He started all 39 games for the Blue Devils during the 2024-25 season, averaging 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. His shooting efficiency was particularly impressive, connecting on 40.6% of his three-point attempts and an exceptional 91.4% from the free-throw line. (Duke star, Wisconsin native Kon Knueppel makes 2025 NBA draft decision, Kon Knueppel declares for 2025 NBA Draft – TalkBasket.net)
Knueppel’s performance was instrumental in Duke’s success, helping the team secure a 35-4 record, win both the regular-season and tournament championships in the Atlantic Coast Conference, and earn a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. The Blue Devils advanced to the Final Four, where they narrowly lost to Houston in a heartbreaker, 70-67. (Duke star, Wisconsin native Kon Knueppel makes 2025 NBA draft decision)
Knueppel’s impressive freshman season has positioned him as a top prospect in the 2025 NBA Draft. He is widely projected to be selected in the lottery, with some analysts ranking him as high as No. 10 overall. For instance, Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman predicts that Knueppel will be chosen by the Portland Trail Blazers with the No. 10 pick, citing his shooting ability, high basketball IQ, and potential to contribute immediately at the next level. (Kon Knueppel declares for 2025 NBA Draft – TalkBasket.net, NBA Rumors: Scouts ‘Divided on’ Duke’s Kon Knueppel; No. 10 in B/R’s 2025 Mock Draft)
Scouting reports highlight Knueppel’s strengths, including his three-level scoring ability, elite shooting mechanics, and high basketball IQ. At 6’7″ and 217 pounds, he possesses the size and versatility to play both guard and forward positions. However, some concerns have been raised about his athleticism and lateral quickness, which could impact his defensive capabilities at the NBA level. (2025 NBA Draft: Kon Knueppel Scouting Report)
Kon Knueppel’s decision to enter the NBA Draft is not only a personal achievement but also a continuation of a family legacy in basketball. His parents, Chari Nordgaard and Kon Sr., both had illustrious basketball careers. Chari is the all-time leading scorer at UW-Green Bay, while Kon Sr. scored over 2,000 points at Wisconsin Lutheran College. This rich basketball heritage has undoubtedly influenced Kon’s development and passion for the game. (Duke star, Wisconsin native Kon Knueppel makes 2025 NBA draft decision)
Adding to the family’s basketball prominence, Kon’s younger brothers are also making names for themselves in the sport. Kager, a Class of 2027 prospect, and Kinston, a Class of 2028 standout, are already drawing attention for their skills and potential. With such a talented lineage, the Knueppel family is poised to continue its impact on the basketball world for years to come. (Duke Recruiting: More Knueppels Incoming!)
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Kon Knueppel as he looks to take the next step in his basketball career. His decision to declare for the draft reflects his confidence in his abilities and readiness to compete at the highest level. Whether he is selected by the Portland Trail Blazers or another team, Knueppel’s journey from Wisconsin high school standout to potential NBA lottery pick is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the support of his family. (NBA Rumors: Scouts ‘Divided on’ Duke’s Kon Knueppel; No. 10 in B/R’s 2025 Mock Draft)
For Duke, Knueppel’s departure marks the end of an era. With several key players, including fellow freshman Cooper Flagg and center Khaman Maluach, also declaring for the draft, the Blue Devils will look to rebuild and continue their tradition of excellence under head coach Jon Scheyer. (Duke freshman center Khaman Maluach declares for NBA draft)
As for Kon Knueppel, his future in the NBA looks promising. With his skill set, basketball IQ, and work ethic, he is well-equipped to make a significant impact at the next level. The Knueppel family legacy in basketball is far from over, and the best may be yet to come.
