Did Charlotte just strike gold with a 1-2 rookie kick?
The Charlotte Hornets they couldn’t have asked for a better start to the season either from their two rookies, Ryan Kalkbrenner and Kon Knuepel. Both made their NBA debuts in front of a sellout crowd of 19,516 at the Spectrum Center and immediately showed why the franchise believes they are part of its future.
Combined burner for Knupel and lime for 21 points and 16 rebounds Charlotte won 136–117 over the Brooklyn Nets, marking the first time in team history that two rookies started on opening night. Kalkbrenner became just the second Hornets rookie to record a double-double in his debut, finishing with 10 points and 11 rebounds. Knuepel added 11 points, five rebounds and poise beyond his years.
“It’s great,” Kalkbrenner said. “We’re just going to make the most of the opportunity we have. Whether it’s starting or coming off the bench, we’re happy to help the team win.”
Coach Charles Lee praised the freshman’s poise and competitiveness. “They deserved the opportunity to be there,” Lee said. “It’s been great to see them impact the game in so many ways. From Ryan blocking shots to Conn spacing the floor, they’ve both been working hard since the day they arrived.”
The Hornets starters were part of a balanced attack
Knuepel and Kalkbrenner were part of a balanced Hornets offense that saw nine players finish in double figures, an NBA record for a season opener. Brandon Miller led Charlotte with 25 points in his first game since suffering a wrist injury last season. LaMelo Ball had 20 points and eight assists, while Miles Bridges had 18 points and 11 rebounds.
For a franchise looking to end the NBA’s longest playoff drought, Wednesday’s win was symbolic. The Hornets not only showed growth on the court, but also an energy and excitement that resonated with the fans.
“I thought the crowd was great,” Knueppel said. “They gave us a lot of juice tonight. We felt the energy right away and it was pretty special.”
With promising rookies and renewed confidence, Charlotte could finally be building toward something permanent.
2025-10-23 14:58:00
