Charlotte Hornets coach Charles Lee believes "humble, no ego" players like Kon Knueppel will elevate the organisation.

Knueppel made NBA history on Thursday, setting a new record for most 3-pointers made in a rookie season (209), surpassing Keegan Murray's previous total of 206 in 2022-23.

The Hornets guard made a joint-career-high eight threes, one short of the NBA rookie record, on his way to scoring 28 as Charlotte defeated the Indiana Pacers 133-109 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Knueppel broke the record after just 59 games; it took Murray 80 games to set the previous record in 2023 with the Sacramento Kings.

"It's what elevates our whole culture when you have a guy that's that good, but that humble, no ego – it becomes contagious throughout your whole organisation," Lee told CGTN Sports Scene.

swipe thru to celebrate with the squad  pic.twitter.com/jpChxS1t3f

— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) February 27, 2026

Along with Knueppel's 28, Brandon Miller also scored a game-high 33 points, while LaMelo Ball and Moussa Diabate added 20 and 14 respectively.

Knueppel, who is battling for the Rookie of the Year award with former team-mate Cooper Flagg, praised his fellow Hornets players and coaches after clinching the record.

"Honestly, I thought I needed seven," Knueppel said, who only needed six points to break Murray's record.

"It's really just about making the right basketball play. My teammates are setting good screens and setting me up in good spots.

"The coaches as well. I'm just out there looking to make the right play for my team."