Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg, Charlotte Hornets guard Kon Knueppel, and Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe have been announced as finalists for the 2025-26 NBA Rookie of the Year award. Flagg led the rookie class with an average of 21 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, showcasing his scoring ability with 11 games of 30 points or more. Knueppel made history by becoming the first rookie to lead the league in three-pointers, hitting 273 shots at a 42.5% rate from beyond the arc, while averaging 18.5 points and 5.3 rebounds. Edgecombe contributed with 16 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, ranking third among rookies in scoring and leading in loose balls recovered. The finalists were determined by a global panel of 100 sportswriters and broadcasters, with the winner set to be announced during the playoffs.