NBA Rookie Goes Viral for Picking Jesus Christ as Fantasy 1v1 Matchup: “Might Beat Me”

Kon Knueppel had an unexpected response when asked which historical figure he would want to play 1v1.

NBA Rookie Goes Viral for Picking Jesus Christ as Fantasy 1v1 Matchup: “Might Beat Me”

Kon Knuepell (Image credits - Firstsportz)

In Short
  • Kon Knueppel was drafted fourth overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2025 NBA draft.
  • The Hornets improved to 26-29, currently sitting ninth in the Eastern Conference standings.
  • Knueppel gained attention for choosing Jesus Christ as a historical figure for a 1v1 matchup, sparking viral reactions online.

Kon Knueppel is undoubtedly one of the most talented rookies the NBA has seen in a while. Drafted by the Charlotte Hornets as the number four pick in the 2025 NBA draft, Knueppel has shown that he could be the face of the franchise in the coming years.

After a poor start to the 2025-26 campaign, the Charlotte Hornets have shown significant improvement since the turn of the year. In the 22 games they have played in 2026, they have gone 15-7. They recorded a narrow 110-107 victory over the Atlanta Hawks heading into the All-Star break.

The win improved the Hornets’ record to 26-29, putting them in the play-in spots and ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings. At the moment, they are two games ahead of 11th place Chicago Bulls.

Their sudden improvement in form is due to the rise of Kon Knueppel. The rookie has been a revelation for his team, stepping in with efficient production that has complemented established stars LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller.

His performances this season have drawn comparisons to Stephen Curry. He broke Curry’s record for the most games by a rookie in NBA history with 20+ PTS on 50/40/90%. And with a third of the season still to go, it would not surprise many if he ends up breaking more records.

Recently, Knueppel was asked to pick one historical figure he would want to play 1v1 against. His pick was a surprising one.

He might beat me. I think that would be cool. A conversation with him would be better, though.

While Knueppel’s former Duke teammate Cooper Flagg continues to grab the headlines, the Hornets guard will be looking to give Flagg a run for his money for the Rookie of the Year award.

The 20-year-old is currently averaging 18.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 54 appearances. What makes him stand out is his efficiency as he is shooting at 48.4% from the field, 43.1% from beyond the arc, and 90.2% from the free-throw line.

The internet reacts to Kon Knueppel’s 1v1 pick

The young star’s unexpected pick would have definitely raised some eyebrows. After picking Jesus Christ, his response went viral and the internet were quick to react across social media.

Several fans were surprised with his pick and expectedly so. The rookie will be in action on Thursday night when the Hornets take on the Houston Rockets at the Spectrum Center.

Giannis Antetokounmpo showers praise on Kon Knueppel

With all the trade talk surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Greek superstar ended up staying with the Milwaukee Bucks after the trade deadline.

During the All-Star weekend, Antetokounmpo sought out Knueppel and delivered a message that should energize fans in Charlotte.

Kon Knueppel
Kon Knueppel (Image credits – BBC)

You’re probably one of the smartest rookies I’ve ever seen. You are one of the most competitive players that I’ve seen as a rookie. You already got it, and you’re only gonna get better.

Some high level of praise for a player like Antetokounmpo. For a 20-year-old still adjusting to NBA life, that type of validation matters. If the former champion’s evaluation holds true, Hornets fans have reason to believe they are watching the early stages of something sustainable.

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