Duke’s Sion James (14) celebrates after hitting a three-pointer during the first half of Duke’s game against Arizona in the Sweet 16 round of the 2025 Men’s NCAA Basketball Championship at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., Thursday, March 27, 2025. Ethan Hyman [email protected]

The Hornets drafted two defensive-minded players in consecutive picks in the second round of the NBA Draft. With the 33rd overall selection, Charlotte took Duke guard Sion James, who will join college teammate Kon Knueppel in the Queen City.

During his post-draft media availability, James was asked about charity work he's already done in the Charlotte community. His game and his mindset put him on the fast track to becoming a fan favorite in the Queen City, no matter the local's preferred college.