The Charlotte Hornets seem to have gamers who’re lock-in for Crew USA for the 2028 Olympics.
In lots of instances, Crew USA’s Olympic roster is discovered by the highest NBA stars. That is clear from the Parisio Philosophy, the place LeBron James, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant appeared on Crew USA.
However talking of the 2028 Olympics, the trio might be not a part of the roster. Because of this, the coaches look to the younger stars and fill the roster.
With that in thoughts, NBA analyst Invoice Simmons believes the Charlotte Hornets has one participant to win a spot in Crew USA in 2028.
Extra lately, Lamelo Ball has been the cornerstone famous person for the NBA’s Hornets. Nonetheless, as a result of repeated accidents on the ball, he has not led them to nice success.
Because of this, the Hornets entered the 2025 NBA Draft with the fourth general decide. The group used it to pick out Kon Knueppel, including one other unimaginable outlook to the youthful core.
Coming to Simmons’ factors, the veteran sports activities analyst assured that the Hornets rookies had been able to play for Crew USA on the 2028 Olympics.
“I not often do that. I assure that this man will be a part of the staff (USA) in 2028. Kon Knueppel. I assure that he might be one in every of 12 guys in 2028,” Simmons informed the Zach Lowe present.
“He is nice for worldwide basketball. (He) can play a number of positions. He can activate protection,” he added.
However what’s the final type of reward? Simmons in contrast the rookie to Boston Celtic star Derrick White.
“I do know the place to go and what to do. Very Derrick Whiteish. I understand how to suit with different folks and I can shoot. Three years later, it makes good sense that he is on the staff,” Simmons mentioned.
The 6’7” guard solely spent one season with Duke’s basketball program earlier than declaring the NBA draft. However that quick stint was sufficient for Simmons to find out the ceiling of his prospects.
Within the context, Knoupel averaged 14.4 factors, 4.0 rebounds and a pair of.7 assists per sport, with Duke.
“He is simply checking so many bins for the worldwide stuff. He does not thoughts if he performs that a lot. He is prepared if he wants him. He is insured on the swing spot. He can rebound,” Simmons continued.
A well known sports activities analyst mentioned, “He is a man like Serbia or Lithuania and also you say, “God, that man is killing us. How does he have 12 rebounds and 4 threes?” He’s a should for me. ”
This can be a huge prediction about Knoupel, however first, he has to show himself within the NBA. Knueppel has already been impressed with the NBA Summer season League. He has to carry that momentum into the season.
