Comparisons are commonplace in the NCAA, but while ESPN’s top recruit Cooper Flagg took the court with high expectations, it was an under-the-radar Duke rookie who stole the spotlight. In fact, he left such an impression on fans and analysts alike that some were quick to label him a “young Klay Thompson.”

In a recent discussion with Malika Andrews, ESPN analyst Jonathan Givony was all praises for Kon Knueppel. “Now Malika, as good as Cooper Flagg was, I thought the best performance from a Duke freshman yesterday was once again Kon Knueppel who could very well end up being a top-five pick based on what we’ve seen so far.”

While star recruit Cooper Flagg entered the game with significant buzz—ranked No. 1 in ESPN’s top 100 and a preseason AP All-American—it was Knueppel who destroyed the competition on Monday night. Flagg, standing 6-foot-9 and weighing 205 pounds, did have an impressive debut with 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, making 6 of his 15 shots from the field and going a perfect 6 of 6 from the charity line.

Yet, as the game progressed, it was Knueppel’s efficiency, range, and scoring versatility that took center stage, offering a glimpse into his potential as a Blue Devil this season. He scored 22 points while starting the game. The freshman also collected 4 rebounds and made 1 steal for Duke.

“He made some ridiculous shots. He showed a ton of game-creating out of pick and roll, going one-on-one, scoring himself, finding teammates unselfishly. He made a major impact defensively. This guy looks like an absolute star, sort of like a young Clay Thompson. He’s been a revelation for NBA scouts since arriving in Durham. He was not a McDonald’s All-American but he’s going to be a very high draft pick. “

Although we have a limited sample size to compare Klay Thompson’s career to that of Kon Knueppel, Klay has still managed to average 12.5 points per game shooting 42% from the field and collecting an average of 4.2 rebounds as a freshman for Washington State.

Knueppel, who ranked No. 19 on ESPN’s top 100, came to Duke with a different story from Flagg’s. Hailing from Wisconsin Lutheran High School, Knueppel earned numerous accolades, including the 2023-24 Gatorade Wisconsin Player of the Year and Wisconsin Mr. Basketball awards.

He led his team to a perfect 30-0 record and a state championship, averaging 25.9 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 5.3 assists while shooting nearly 60% from the field. Although not as highly touted as Flagg nationally, Knueppel’s opening game performance showed why he’s now seen as a potential breakout star for Duke.

Kon Knueppel steals top recruit Cooper Flagg’s thunder

Against Maine, the 6-foot-7 wing displayed his full offensive arsenal. He dropped 22 points on 58% shooting from the field and 3 of 8 from beyond the arc. His hot start was crucial to Duke’s early lead, as he scored 15 points on 5-of-8 shooting in the first half alone.

This included a four-point play that gave Duke a comfortable double-digit advantage as Knueppel outscored Maine 13-9 in the first seven minutes. This has also led, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer to praise his adaptability, noting how quickly Knueppel has adapted to his role within the team.

As the game moved into the second half, Duke continued to dominate. The turning point came with an 11-0 run that put the Blue Devils firmly in control. Knueppel’s role in this sequence was pivotal, hitting a corner three after a pass from Flagg and helping Duke extend its lead to 60-39 with just over 14 minutes remaining.

Comparisons to Klay Thompson are not given lightly, especially for a freshman. Yet Knueppel’s size, shooting ability, and poise under pressure echoed Thompson’s qualities, highlighting his potential to make a lasting impact in Durham. Duke’s offense was well-rounded, with six players scoring in double figures, but Knueppel’s scoring consistency and shooting range were instrumental in creating the comfortable lead.

With the Blue Devils now turning their attention to tougher matchups, including a clash with Kentucky, Knueppel’s performance has undoubtedly generated heightened expectations. If he continues to shine, Knueppel may soon become one of the most impactful freshmen in college basketball this season.