Young Stars and Emerging Talents in Charlotte
When discussing the Charlotte Hornets’ budding young core, the spotlight often shines brightly on Kon Knueppel. As one of the most promising prospects in the league, his potential is hard to overlook. Yet, the roster boasts a wealth of young talent that extends beyond Knueppel, including LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Ryan Kalkbrenner, all of whom are 24 years old or younger.
A Broader Look at Youth
Expanding the scope to players aged 25 and under reveals even more intriguing names. Josh Green, Sion James, Moussa Diabate, KJ Simpson, and Tre Mann add depth and versatility to this young roster. While Knueppel, Ball, and Miller frequently garner attention, two players are quietly making their mark: Tidjane Salaun and Liam McNeeley.
Emerging Names in the Spotlight
At just 20 years old, Salaun and McNeeley are beginning to showcase their abilities, suggesting that the Hornets’ future may be even brighter than anticipated. As they develop, their contributions could complement the established stars and help shape a more competitive team.
The Hornets are at a pivotal moment in their trajectory, and while the headlines often focus on their more recognized talents, players like Salaun and McNeeley are charting a path that could redefine the franchise’s future. The combination of established stars and emerging prospects creates an exciting narrative for the Hornets as they work toward building a formidable squad.

