Hornets select Hannes Steinbach with No. 14 pick in NBA draft

The Charlotte Hornets selected Hannes Steinbach, a center from Washington, with the No. 14 overall pick in the NBA draft on June 24, 2026. Steinbach had a productive college career, averaging 18.5 points and 11.8 rebounds per game for the Huskies. This marks the second consecutive year the Hornets have focused on adding a center to their roster, following the selection of Ryan Kalkbrenner in the 2025 draft. As Steinbach prepares for his rookie season, his defensive mobility and shooting skills will be under scrutiny. The decision to draft Steinbach raises questions among fans about whether the team should have sought an established center instead.

• 3:45 AMYahoo Sports — Hornets draft Washington big man with No. 14 overall pick