BREAKING: Kon Knueppel Shocks NBA – Rejects $8.5M from Spurs, Thunder & Blazers to Return to Duke
In a jaw-dropping twist that no one saw coming, Duke star Kon Knueppel has turned down a reported $8.5 million in combined offers from the San Antonio Spurs, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Portland Trail Blazers to return to the Blue Devils for another season.
The bold decision has stunned NBA executives and sent shockwaves through the basketball world.
Knueppel, who was widely projected as a late first-round or early second-round pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, reportedly received strong interest from multiple teams looking to secure his services early. The Spurs, Thunder, and Blazers were believed to be the most aggressive, each dangling multi-million dollar guarantees and development plans. Despite that, Knueppel made it clear that he has unfinished business at Duke.
“I’m grateful for the NBA interest, but my heart told me I’m not done in Durham,” Knueppel said in a statement. “We have something special building at Duke, and I want to be a part of it.”
Insiders say Knueppel’s return was influenced by a combination of factors—his love for the Duke culture, his trust in head coach Jon Scheyer, and the opportunity to elevate his draft stock further by leading the Blue Devils on a title run.
After an impressive freshman season, he’s poised to take on an even larger role in the upcoming year, and many believe he could be a lottery pick if he continues on his current trajectory.
Coach Scheyer expressed his excitement over the news. “Kon’s decision speaks volumes about his character and commitment,” Scheyer said. “He’s the kind of player every coach dreams of—a leader, a worker, and someone who wants to win the right way.”
The decision to return is also being hailed as a major win for college basketball amid an era where big-name players often make the leap to the pros early, especially with millions on the table. Knueppel’s move shows that, in some cases, loyalty, growth, and the college experience still matter.
With Kon Knueppel back in the mix, Duke instantly becomes a top contender for the national title. And while NBA teams may have to wait, the Blue Devils — and their fans — are celebrating a massive victory that could define the next college basketball season.
