Charlotte Hornets Rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner Shoots His Way Into History
Despite a challenging start to the 2025-26 season for our beloved Charlotte Hornets, a bright new star is emerging from Spectrum Center. Rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner is quickly becoming a local sensation, setting an NBA record with his incredible efficiency from the field.
A Glimmer of Hope for the Hornets
Our Charlotte Hornets might be sitting at a 3-7 record, but amidst the team’s early struggles, one player is giving fans plenty to cheer about. Ryan Kalkbrenner, a promising young talent, is showcasing an automatic touch that has not only turned heads but also rewritten the league’s record books.
Kalkbrenner’s Record-Breaking Start
Unprecedented Shooting Accuracy
In his first 10 NBA games, Kalkbrenner has achieved an astounding 80.8 percent shooting from the field, successfully converting 42 of his initial 52 attempts. This remarkable consistency isn’t just impressive; it’s historic, marking the highest shooting percentage ever recorded for a player with at least 50 attempts over their debut 10 games.
Surpassing a Legend: Yao Ming
Kalkbrenner’s feat surpasses a long-standing record held by none other than Hall of Famer Yao Ming, who started his 2002 rookie campaign with a formidable 72 percent (36-of-50) from the field. For a Hornets rookie to outperform such a legend speaks volumes about his potential and immediate impact.
The Humble Rookie’s Perspective
When asked about his incredible scoring production, Kalkbrenner credited his teammates. “It’s just a credit to my teammates who let me get easy looks,” he stated. “I mean, it’s not my role to take tough shots, so of course I’m at a decent percentage, but my teammates do a really good job of finding me on dump-offs when I’m wide open and whatnot. So, I’m just glad I’m able to finish some of them.” This team-first attitude makes him even more endearing to Charlotte fans.
Kalkbrenner’s Impact and Future in Charlotte
From Draft Pick to Key Starter
Drafted 34th overall by the Hornets, the 23-year-old center has quickly transitioned from a second-round pick to a crucial starter. He has started all 10 games, averaging 26.6 minutes on the court. His all-around game is also shining through, with averages of 9.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game, making him a dominant presence on both ends of the floor.
Optimism for the Queen City
For Charlotte basketball enthusiasts, Kalkbrenner’s early performances offer a strong dose of optimism. His blend of efficiency, defensive presence, and team-oriented play suggests he could be a foundational piece for the Hornets’ future. As the season progresses, his development will undoubtedly be a key storyline to follow in the Queen City.
Rookie Shooting Efficiency Comparison
| Player | Season Start (10 Games) | Field Goal % |
|---|---|---|
| Ryan Kalkbrenner (2025) | 42-of-52 | 80.8% |
| Yao Ming (2002) | 36-of-50 | 72.0% |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Ryan Kalkbrenner?
He is a rookie center for the Charlotte Hornets, drafted 34th overall in the NBA Draft. - What record did he break?
Kalkbrenner set a new NBA record for the highest field goal percentage (80.8%) over a player’s first 10 games with at least 50 attempts. - How does his record compare to previous ones?
He surpassed Yao Ming’s rookie record of 72% over his first 10 games. - What are his current season averages?
He is averaging 9.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. - Why is this significant for the Charlotte Hornets?
His historic efficiency and strong all-around play provide a major positive highlight for the team and suggest a promising future for the franchise.
Charlotte fans, keep your eyes on Ryan Kalkbrenner. His record-breaking start is a testament to his talent and an exciting preview of what’s to come for our Hornets.
Hornets rookie Kalkbrenner sets NBA shooting record
