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.

The Charlotte Hornets used the first of their early picks in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft on Duke forward Sion James. At 6-foot-5 and 220 pounds, James was named an All-ACC defender, averaging 8.

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.