The Charlotte Hornets have selected Ryan Kalkbrenner, the 7-foot-1 center from Florissant, MO with the 34th overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft.
The Creighton University standout, who attended Trinity Catholic High School, brings an impressive resume to the NBA after a stellar five-year college career.
Kalkbrenner, a four-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year and the 2025 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, averaged 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game in his final season at Creighton. His 65.3% field goal percentage and surprising 34.4% from three-point range showcased his versatility as a modern big man. With a 7-foot-6 wingspan, Kalkbrenner is a dominant rim protector and efficient finisher, making him an ideal fit for a Hornets team looking to bolster its frontcourt after trading center Mark Williams.
The 23-year-old’s journey to the NBA is a testament to his perseverance. Opting to return for a fifth season at Creighton, Kalkbrenner honed his skills, improving his footwork and shooting to complement his elite defensive instincts. His selection marks a historic moment for Creighton, as he becomes their sixth NBA Draft pick since 2014 and the first ever drafted by the Hornets franchise.
For Charlotte, Kalkbrenner offers immediate impact as a backup center with the potential to develop into a long-term asset.
