Kon Knueppel reveals Larry Bird-like mindset

The Charlotte Hornets returned from All-Star break Thursday night to face Kevin Durant and the Houston Rockets at home.

Having defeated the Rockets by double-digits earlier in the season, Charlotte was hoping to sweep the season series.

That said, the matchup proved difficult, especially considering both Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate were unavailable due to suspension.

In their absence, it was Grant Williams who stepped up, scoring a season-high 20 points on 7-for-10 shooting including 4-for-5 from three-point range. Williams also added nine rebounds and one assist.

Kon Knueppel contributed 15 points on 3-for-6 shooting from three. With those three-pointers, Knueppel has now made 186 this season, third all-time for a rookie, trailing Donovan Mitchell by just one for second place. Keegan Murray sits in first place, 20 ahead (206).

Although shooting has been one of Knueppel's strongest attributes, he's also impressed many with his hustle and tenacity.

Before the game, Knueppel spoke with the media and revealed his Larry Bird-like mindset when on the floor. "There was a quote from Larry Bird (...) 'A guy watching a ball go out of bounds without diving for it makes me sick.'"

Knueppel went on to say: "But really, it's just, if you're going to compete, you might as well give it all you have, you know? And put your body on the line a little bit."

Though the Hornets suffered a close loss (105-101) Thursday, Knueppel's mindset has been applauded by Charlotte fans as the Hornets have found much more success this season due to their increased hustle and grit.

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