[The following scouting report is part of a series on potential 2025 draft prospects from Sports Business Classroom alumni.]

Kon Knueppel
Frame: 6’7”, 217 lbs
Position: Wing
Team: Duke Blue Devils
Draft Age: 19
Stats via: Sports-Reference​

Offense

Knueppel is primarily an elite-level shooter, but labeling him as only that undersells his impact and versatility. He has the physical profile of a bulky wing paired with the finesse and perimeter shooting usually seen in smaller guards. He thrives as a high-volume, accurate shooter, converting 40.6 percent of his threes on 5.3 attempts per game. His textbook shooting mechanics are fluid, quick, and repeatable, allowing him to excel in various scenarios, notably spot-up shooting (47 percent), shooting off screens (38.6 percent), and occasionally off movement. His compact and efficient release combines with impeccable footwork, ensuring balance even under pressure.

Beyond shooting, Knueppel shows promising on-ball flashes. He controls his dribble steadily, methodically navigating to spots on the floor, especially in the midrange area. Knueppel leverages his frame exceptionally well, absorbing contact and creating separation in tight spaces. His high basketball IQ shines through decision-making, where he rarely forces tough shots and consistently exploits defensive rotations. His passing is reliable, particularly in pick-and-roll situations and attacking closeouts, where he quickly and smartly finds teammates.

However, Knueppel’s offensive ceiling depends on expanding his on-ball creation and finishing consistently at the rim. He often settles for midrange floaters and pull-ups rather than attacking the rim aggressively. While efficient in those areas, improving his burst and agility against NBA-level athletes will be essential for maximizing his offensive potential.

 

Defense

Knueppel faces significant defensive limitations despite his notable competitiveness and basketball IQ. His below-average foot speed and lateral agility hinder his ability to guard quicker players, especially in isolation and pick-and-roll scenarios. His feet appear sluggish in open space, leaving him vulnerable against explosive athletes. However, he partially compensates for these shortcomings through physicality, strength, positioning, and anticipation.

His advanced understanding of team defense stands out; he frequently communicates, rotates correctly, and displays strong commitment and high engagement. Knueppel rarely finds himself out of position in structured defensive schemes, indicating his grasp of defensive responsibilities. His strength allows him to body up wings, partially offsetting his quickness disadvantage effectively. Improving lateral quickness and mobility will be necessary to boost his defensive upside.

Looking Ahead

Knueppel’s NBA projection hinges significantly on his elite shooting and basketball intelligence overcoming athletic limitations. His immediate value as an efficient floor spacer contributing to a team-oriented offense is clear. If he can improve his ability to drive and finish against NBA-level defenders, his offensive ceiling could substantially rise, maximizing his size, strength, and shooting gravity.

The challenge is more demanding on defense. Without notable physical improvements, Knueppel risks becoming a target for NBA offenses. While positional strength and intelligence may suffice in regular-season play, playoff intensity could expose his athletic limitations further without meaningful upgrades.

Knueppel’s baseline as an efficient shooter with strong decision-making and playmaking feel is already attractive. He comfortably projects as a rotational wing capable of spacing the floor and playing intelligently within team systems, reminiscent of NBA players like Desmond Bane or Bojan Bogdanović. His ultimate NBA impact largely depends on mitigating defensive concerns and incrementally improving shot creation, making him a compelling top prospect.