Hornets welcome 2 rookies from Duke University

Two former Duke Blue Devils are joining the Charlotte Hornets as rookies this season.

Why it matters: Duke led the NCAA with five draft picks in 2025.

• Charlotte took freshman Kon Knueppel with the fourth overall pick, and his 22-year-old teammate, Sion James, in the second round.

The big picture: Three Triangle schools are in the top 20 for most first-round picks of all time.

• Duke has produced 59. UNC is not far behind, with 56. And N.C. State has contributed 16.

What's next: NBA season kicks off next month, and Charlotte's first home game is Oct. 22.