Key takeaways
• Knueppel scored 18 points, grabbed six rebounds, and handed out four assists in 35 minutes.
• He shot 58 percent from the field, including timely baskets in crunch time.
• His defense sparked momentum with two key steals late.
• Charlotte rallied to beat Atlanta 105-98 on the road.
• Knueppel’s energy and leadership lifted the Hornets.
Knueppel Leads Charlotte with 18 Points
The Hornets earned a hard-fought 105-98 victory over Atlanta. Knueppel paced Charlotte with 18 points, six rebounds, and four assists in 35 minutes. He shot 7 of 12 from the field while staying aggressive on both ends. The win improved Charlotte’s record and showed the team’s fighting spirit. Fans cheered as Knueppel sank a late jumper to break an eight-point tie.
Game Highlights
From the opening tip, Charlotte played with urgency. Meanwhile, Knueppel attacked the basket and set up teammates in transition. He drove past defenders for a pair of layups in the first quarter. Additionally, his midrange jumper found nothing but net to keep the Hornets close. By halftime, he had already logged ten points and four rebounds.
Knueppel’s Impact on the Court
Knueppel’s presence proved vital in crunch time. With under five minutes to play, he snagged a loose ball and raced downcourt for a fastbreak layup. Furthermore, his steal on the next possession led to a three-point play. This four-point swing gave Charlotte a 100-93 cushion. Therefore, his hustle set the tone for the closing minutes.
Team Effort Behind the Win
Although Knueppel starred, other Hornets chipped in. The frontcourt duo combined for 28 points and 14 rebounds. Meanwhile, the bench added 20 points, keeping Atlanta on its heels. Moreover, the Hornets shot 47 percent from the field as a team. Their ball movement led to 25 assists. Overall, Charlotte’s balanced attack overwhelmed the Hawks.
Defensive Stands Make a Difference
Charlotte’s defense shone in the second half. Knueppel contributed by contesting shots and rotating on switches. Additionally, he blocked a potential game-tying jumper with under a minute left. His active hands frustrated Atlanta’s guards all night. As a result, the Hawks shot just 42 percent after halftime.
Knueppel’s Season Growth
This outing marks Knueppel’s fifth game scoring 15 points or more this season. He entered the night averaging 12 points and five rebounds per contest. Furthermore, his assist numbers have climbed steadily. Last year, he averaged two assists; now he’s at 3.1 per game. Clearly, he’s expanding his all-around game.
Coach’s Take on Knueppel
Afterward, the head coach praised Knueppel’s maturity. He noted that Knueppel has embraced film study and extra practice. “He’s more confident taking big shots,” the coach said. “Moreover, he’s leading by example on defense.” Such praise underscores the trust the staff now places in him.
Fan Reaction and Energy
Fans in Atlanta roared each time Knueppel drove baseline for a bucket. Social media lit up with highlights of his hustle plays. Even opposing supporters applauded his timely block. Clearly, his performance left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
What’s Next for Charlotte
The Hornets now prepare for a home game against the Miami Heat. They aim to build on this road win and extend their current streak. Knueppel said he plans to study Miami’s defense to find more scoring lanes. Meanwhile, teammates expect him to keep that same intensity.
Knueppel’s Road Ahead
Looking ahead, Knueppel hopes to keep improving. He wants to average double-digit assists by season’s end. Furthermore, he aims to reduce turnovers while maintaining his scoring touch. If he stays locked in, he could become one of the league’s most versatile guards.
Key Takeaways from Knueppel’s Night
The big story remains Knueppel’s all-around impact. He put up strong numbers in points, rebounds, and assists. His hustle plays drove the team in critical moments. Beyond stats, his leadership uplifted the squad. Finally, he showed he can deliver when the game is on the line.
Why This Win Matters
This victory cements Charlotte’s status as a playoff contender. After a slow start, the Hornets have racked up three wins in their last four games. Moreover, they’ve beaten two division rivals on the road. Such results build team confidence and momentum. With Knueppel leading the charge, they look ready for a long run.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
Reflecting on this game, Knueppel said the key was staying composed. He added that the team’s trust helped him play freely. Moving forward, he plans to keep that same mindset. As long as he balances scoring and playmaking, the Hornets will benefit.
Knueppel’s strong outing proved he can carry a team on both ends. Charlotte’s fans have plenty to cheer about. Now the focus shifts to sustaining this high level of play. If Knueppel keeps this up, the Hornets could surprise many this season.
FAQs
How many points did Knueppel score in the win over Atlanta?
Knueppel posted 18 points in that game.
What other stats did Knueppel record?
He grabbed six rebounds and dished four assists.
How efficient was Knueppel from the field?
He shot 7 of 12, which is 58 percent.
What’s next on the Hornets’ schedule?
Charlotte hosts Miami in their upcoming home game. Source: https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/12/01/michael-porter-jr-nets-hornets/