Inglewood, California, February 9, 2026
Charlotte Hornets rookie sharpshooter Kon Knueppel has been selected to participate in the 2026 NBA All-Star State Farm 3-Point Contest. The event highlights his impressive debut season, where he ranks 3rd in the NBA in 3-pointers made. The competition will take place at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, and is anticipated as one of the marquee events of NBA All-Star Weekend, showcasing top shooting talent and offering fans an exciting celebration of basketball culture.
Inglewood, California
Rookie Sensation Kon Knueppel to Compete in NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest
Inglewood, California – Charlotte Hornets rookie sharpshooter Kon Knueppel has been officially announced as a participant in the prestigious 2026 NBA All-Star State Farm 3-Point Contest, scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 14, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood. This significant announcement confirms Knueppel’s rising prominence in the league as he joins a field of elite shooters during the highly anticipated NBA All-Star Weekend.
Knueppel’s selection highlights an impressive debut season where he has quickly established himself as a formidable long-range threat. He currently ranks 3rd in the NBA in 3-pointers made with a total of 174. His consistent performance from beyond the arc has been a key factor in his early success.
Knueppel’s Stellar Rookie Campaign
The young Hornets guard has made a substantial impact in his inaugural NBA season. Beyond his total three-pointers, Knueppel has maintained a strong average of 3.3 three-pointers per game over 51 games played. His efficiency is notable, boasting a 42.4 percent shooting accuracy from three-point range. Knueppel’s overall scoring average stands at 18.8 points per game, complemented by 5.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists, showcasing his well-rounded offensive game. Earlier in the season, his exceptional play earned him the title of the East’s Rookie of the Month.
His knack for hitting big shots has been evident throughout the season, including a performance where he tied a franchise rookie record by hitting seven three-pointers in a single game, becoming one of only four rookies in league history to achieve at least five three-pointers in three consecutive games.
The Marquee Event of All-Star Saturday
The 3-Point Contest is a cornerstone event of NBA All-Star Saturday, drawing significant attention as fans eagerly watch the league’s top shooters compete for supremacy. The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend itself, marking its 75th edition, will span from Friday, February 13, to Sunday, February 15, with events hosted at both the Intuit Dome and the historic Kia Forum in Inglewood.
The All-Star festivities extend beyond the main game and contests, offering a comprehensive celebration of basketball culture. Events such as the Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game at the Kia Forum and NBA Crossover at the Los Angeles Convention Center provide immersive experiences for fans, showcasing the intersection of the sport with entertainment and community.
Understanding the 3-Point Contest Format
The NBA’s 3-Point Contest is a test of precision and speed. Participants are tasked with making as many three-point field goals as possible within a 70-second time limit. The competition features five racks positioned around the three-point arc. Each of these racks contains five basketballs: four standard orange balls, each worth one point, and a special multi-colored “money ball” that awards two points.
Further enhancing the challenge, a designated rack consisting entirely of money balls can be strategically placed by the player at one of the five spots. Additionally, two “Starry range” balls, positioned deeper than the conventional three-point line, offer an even greater reward, being worth three points each. This format allows for a maximum possible score of 40 points in a single round. After an initial qualifying round, the top three scorers advance to a final round to determine the champion.
A Rich History of Sharpshooting Excellence
Since its inception in 1986, the NBA 3-Point Contest has been a showcase for legendary shooters. Icons like Larry Bird and Craig Hodges have etched their names in history by winning the contest multiple times, with both achieving a remarkable three consecutive victories. The event has evolved over the years, with adjustments to the rules and ball placement to continuously challenge the participants and thrill the audience.
Knueppel will be joining a field of accomplished shooters, including Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker, who is also slated to compete. His participation marks a significant milestone in his young career, offering him a platform to demonstrate his exceptional shooting prowess on one of basketball’s biggest stages. The competition promises to be a highlight of the All-Star festivities, as fans anticipate a display of unparalleled long-range shooting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- When is the 2026 NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest taking place?
- The 2026 NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest will take place on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
- Where is the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend being held?
- The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend is being held in Los Angeles, specifically at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, and the Kia Forum.
- Which team does Kon Knueppel play for?
- Kon Knueppel plays for the Charlotte Hornets.
- How does Kon Knueppel rank in 3-pointers made this season?
- Kon Knueppel currently ranks 3rd in the NBA in 3-pointers made with a total of 174.
- What are the basic rules of the NBA 3-Point Contest?
- Participants have 70 seconds to shoot 27 balls from five racks around the three-point arc. Each rack has four one-point balls and one two-point “money ball.” There’s also one rack of all money balls chosen by the player, and two deeper “Starry range” balls worth three points each.
Key Features of the NBA 3-Point Contest
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Participants | Elite NBA sharpshooters (e.g., Kon Knueppel, Devin Booker). |
| Duration | 70 seconds per round. |
| Basketballs | 27 balls total: 25 from 5 racks, 2 “Starry range” balls. |
| Scoring (Standard Balls) | One point per regular orange ball. |
| Scoring (Money Balls) | Two points per multi-colored “money ball.” One full rack can be designated as all money balls. |
| Scoring (Starry Balls) | Three points per “Starry range” ball, placed deeper than the arc. |
| Maximum Score | 40 points per round. |
| Location (2026) | Intuit Dome, Inglewood, California. |
| Date (2026) | Saturday, February 14, 2026. |
| Historical Significance | Introduced in 1986. Larry Bird and Craig Hodges hold record for three consecutive wins. |
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