The idea of including Kon Knueppel on the USA Basketball Men's National Team for the 2028 Olympics has continued to gain traction. In many ways, the Charlotte Hornets rookie would be a great addition. The fact that Erik Spoelstra will be taking over the squad should also increase Knueppel's odds of getting the nod.
The longtime Miami Heat coach has succeeded Steve Kerr as the main man on the sidelines for Team USA. Naturally, he will have a major role in the selection process, as his predecessors did. So, it's safe to assume the players that he believes could easily adapt to his system and philosophy will be prioritized. And Knueppel just so happens to fit like a glove.
A versatile two-way marksman
Knueppel's primary role, if he ever lands the Team USA gig, is likely to serve as a perimeter threat. Despite being a rookie, he is already one of the best outside shooters. He is on pace to become the first-year pro to lead the league in 3-pointers made. It's also worth noting that he is the only player to be in the top 10 in both 3-point conversions and percentage.
Those who got to watch the Heat from 2019 to 2025 saw how Spoelstra helped turn Duncan Robinson from an undrafted prospect into a premier sharpshooter. Imagine what he can do if he had Knueppel, who is already miles better now than Robinson was in his prime, serving as the off-ball threat in his offensive playbook.
The good thing is that Knueppel is more than just a marksman. He is fast becoming a three-level scorer, whose low-maintenance disposition should allow him to thrive in a squad that features more established stars or superstars. The Duke University product is also a respectable team defender and capable of staying in front of most opposing ball-handlers.
It remains to be seen if Knueppel can eventually become the first player in Hornets/Bobcats history to represent the red, white, and blue. He appears to have already piqued the interest of USA Basketball, per ESPN, and the next two years will give him ample time to prove deserving of a spot in the 12-man lineup.
Maybe LaMelo Ball or Brandon Miller can join him. The pair of stars has continued to improve as scorers and playmakers, helping establish a winning culture in Charlotte. But as it stands, Knueppel may have the best shot at being selected for international duty because of his skill set and seamless fit with the system Spoelstra will be looking to implement.