LAS VEGAS — The Charlotte Hornets captured their first NBA Summer League championship on Sunday, defeating the Sacramento Kings 83–78 to complete an undefeated 6–0 run.
Rookie standout Kon Knueppel, the fourth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, led the Hornets with 21 points. Center Ryan Kalkbrenner added 15 points, while three other Charlotte players contributed 11 points each in a balanced team effort.
Isaac Jones paced the Kings with 24 points and 11 rebounds, while Devin Carter chipped in 13 points. Nique Clifford, Sacramento’s 24th overall pick, finished with 10 points and eight rebounds.
Charlotte’s victory marks a milestone for the franchise, which had never won a Summer League title. The Hornets’ dominant performance throughout the tournament underscores the potential of their young core heading into the upcoming NBA season.