Hornets Add Defense, Talent in 2025 NBA Draft

The Charlotte Hornets selected Duke guard Sion James with the 33rd pick and Creighton center Ryan Kalkbrenner with the 34th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, adding experience and defensive strength to their roster. James, who transferred to Duke after four years at Tulane, earned ACC All-Defensive honors and shot 41% from three, providing leadership and versatility. Kalkbrenner, a four-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year and the 2025 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, averaged 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks in his final college season. The Hornets also selected Kon Knueppel (Duke) and Liam McNeeley (Connecticut) in the first round, focusing on youth and basketball IQ. These new players join a core that includes LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller as the team looks to improve on a 19-63 season. Team executives expressed confidence that the draft addressed both immediate and future needs.