Knueppel, Niederhauser Make Draft History in 2025

The 2025 NBA Draft saw Duke's Kon Knueppel selected fourth overall by the Charlotte Hornets, making him the highest NBA draft pick from Wisconsin, with coach Charles Lee praising his elite shooting and cultural fit. Knueppel averaged 14.4 points per game at Duke and shot 42.3% from three, and is expected to make an instant impact for the Hornets. Also, Yanic Konan Niederhauser was picked 30th overall by the Los Angeles Clippers, becoming Penn State's first-ever first-round NBA draft pick. Niederhauser, who transferred from a MAC school, earned All-Big Ten honorable mention and averaged nearly 13 points and 6 rebounds per game despite injury setbacks. He is expected to serve as a valuable backup to Clippers center Ivica Zubac. Both picks highlight a draft trend favoring players who combine immediate on-court contributions with strong character and work ethic.