Cooper Flagg praises Kon Knueppel amid Rookie of the Year race

Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets has put together a fantastic rookie campaign, exceeding expectations as the Hornets fight for a playoff spot.

Throughout the season, Knueppel has been battling his former college teammate Cooper Flagg for the Rookie of the Year award.

In 67 games for Charlotte this season, Knueppel has averaged 19.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists while shooting over 43% from three-point range.

For the Mavericks, Flagg has scored a bit more but has not been as efficient. On the season, Flagg is averaging 20.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.1 steals.

In a recent interview with ESPN, Flagg spoke about Knueppel and the work that he's seen his former teammate put in.

"I know Kon better than a lot of people. I know what his work ethic is like. I know his drive and how much of a competitor he is," said Flagg.

Flagg went on to speak about their matchup earlier in the year, where he scored a career-high 42 points.

Although Flagg finished as the game's leading scorer, it was Knueppel and the Hornets who got the win, as Kon scored a career high of his own (34), knocking down eight three-pointers in the process.

Unfortunately, Flagg was injured earlier this month when the two were scheduled to square off once again.

Knueppel and the Hornets will return to action Tuesday against the Heat.

As for Flagg, he and the Mavericks will suit up Wednesday against the Atlanta Hawks, who've now won 10 consecutive games.

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