Flagg and Knueppel: Former Duke Teammates Set for NBA Showdown
Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel, former Duke freshmen teammates and currently NBA Rookie of the Year frontrunners, are set to face each other for the first time in an NBA game. Flagg plays for the Dallas Mavericks and Knueppel for the Charlotte Hornets. They were integral parts of Duke's top-ranked recruiting class in 2024.
Early Careers and the Duke Challenge
Before arriving at Duke, Flagg was nationally recognized, having participated in Team USA's pre-Olympic training camp. Duke general manager Rachel Baker stated that Flagg's reputation preceded him. Knueppel gained some attention from NBA scouts at Duke but was not as widely known as Flagg at the time.
Knueppel was later selected as the fourth pick in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets, with Flagg as the number one pick to the Dallas Mavericks.
During a preseason practice at Duke, when Flagg's performance was noted as not being his best, Knueppel reportedly challenged him. Head coach Jon Scheyer recalled Knueppel telling Flagg to focus. Scheyer stated that Flagg responded, "I got you," and his performance improved significantly thereafter.
Scheyer and Baker expressed positive views on this interaction, highlighting its rarity among young players and its benefit to team dynamics.
Shared Personalities and Diverse Interests
Both players were described as grounded individuals despite their rising fame. Baker noted they were "old souls" who did not prioritize social media.
Flagg enjoyed watching "Suits" and playing golf, while Knueppel was a sports history enthusiast, decorating his dorm with old Sports Illustrated covers and listening to "The Bill Simmons Podcast." Knueppel's knowledge of sports history was recognized by Scheyer and Flagg.
They shared similarities such as growing up in cold-weather regions and coming from large families with multiple boys. Flagg has two brothers, and Knueppel is the oldest of five brothers.
On-Court Complement and Enduring Friendship
On the court, Flagg and Knueppel complemented each other. Flagg was effective in the lane, while Knueppel was a strong three-point shooter known for high-IQ plays. Knueppel led Duke to an ACC title, earning tournament MVP honors while Flagg was largely sidelined due0 to an ankle sprain. Scheyer noted their competitive, unselfish, and intelligent personalities as perfect for their team dynamic.
During the NBA Draft Lottery, Flagg, Knueppel, and teammate Khaman Maluach were present. Flagg expressed excitement about playing with Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis. His reaction to Knueppel's selection by the Hornets at No. 4 was particularly animated.
The former roommates maintain a close friendship, speaking regularly about their lives rather than basketball. Currently, Knueppel is noted for his scoring, averaging 18.7 points per game and being a top-tier three-point shooter, while Flagg excels defensively and leads his team in scoring, rebounds, and assists.
Scheyer believes that regardless of who wins Rookie of the Year, their mutual respect and support will persist.