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The NBA has released the finalists for the much-awaited awards, like the Most Valuable Player, the Head Coach of the Year, and the Rookie of the Year, including the list of awards to be announced.
Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe, Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg, and Charlotte Hornets forward Kon Knueppel have been named the three finalists for the 2025-26 Kia NBA Rookie of the Year award.
Three finalists named for 2025-26 NBA Rookie of the Year
Edgecombe delivered the most well-rounded statistical season among the group, averaging 16.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists across 75 games for the 76ers. The versatile guard provided consistent production and playmaking for a Philadelphia team battling in the Eastern Conference standings.
Meanwhile, former Duke teammates Flagg and Knueppel also enjoyed standout rookie campaigns. Knueppel, in particular, shattered the NBA rookie record for three-pointers made and played a key role in lifting the Hornets into play-in tournament contention.
The Kia Rookie of the Year winner will be revealed during the 2026 NBA Awards, with voting conducted by a global panel of 100 sportswriters and broadcasters. All three finalists are expected to be in strong contention, highlighting one of the deepest rookie classes in recent NBA history.
ALSO READ: NBA releases top three finalists for 2025-26 Most Valuable Player
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