As Duke basketball fans continue to wait for the upcoming season, the Blue Zone is here to break down film from the new additions to both the men’s and women’s teams. First up for the men is talented recruit Kon Knueppel:
Kon Knueppel, recipient of the 2023-24 Wisconsin Mr. Basketball Award, brings much-needed strength and versatility to a young Duke roster. The son of two parents who hold their respective schools’ scoring records, it’s only fitting that the 6-foot-7 shooting guard has made his name known throughout the nation. As a senior, the Gatorade Wisconsin Player of the Year averaged 25.9 points, 8.6 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game. Most notably, Knueppel led Wisconsin Lutheran to a state championship in his final high school season, ending the year with a perfect 30-0 record. He offers much for the Cameron Crazies to get excited about in the upcoming 2024-25 season.
The five-star prospect might be most well known for his quick shooting ability and talent from beyond the arc. As a senior, the Milwaukee native shot 39.5% from 3-point range and ended his high school career with an overall shot percentage of 46.1%. Not only does Knueppel’s accuracy make him a threat on the court, but his quick release also proves a dangerous threat to opponents. In the clip below, Knueppel is able to sink a 3-point shot without setting up, catching two defenders out of position.
The 16th-ranked recruit’s abilities aren’t contained to 3-point range. Knueppel’s physical presence is essential to his success on the court. He leans into the physicality of the game and doesn’t shy away from the opportunity to take on an opponent and drive to the rim. In the clip below, see how Knueppel uses his body to shield the ball and ultimately break through two defenders to finish the play. The combination of his quick shooting and physicality under the rim illustrates Knueppel’s ability to step into different roles on the court.
Although Knueppel is known for his prowess as a shooter, his vision on the court is often overlooked. This season, head coach Jon Scheyer’s squad will play without captain Jeremey Roach, who has entered a new chapter of his collegiate career with Baylor. Roach was central to Duke’s offensive operation and provided strong playmaking abilities. Like him, Knueppel is a natural playmaker and has the capacity to orchestrate strong offensive flow. In the following clip, notice how Knueppel attracts three defenders and seamlessly finds his teammate set up for an open 3-point shot on the opposite side of the rim.
Incoming talents Cooper Flag and Khaman Maluach might overshadow much of what Knueppel brings to the Blue Devils’ roster. However, the Wisconsin Lutheran product could prove to be key to Duke’s success if given the opportunity. Knueppel will attempt to provide consistency from beyond the arc and fill the gap left by notable sharpshooter Jared McCain. With an eye for the game, skillful shooting, and a strong presence, Knueppel clearly has something to offer the team. It's just a matter of how much Scheyer’s coaching squad will lean on his talents.
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