McNeeley is coming to Charlotte after the organization acquired the 29th overall pick in a trade with Phoenix during the 2025 NBA Draft on Wednesday night.

"This is a dream come true regardless of the number where I was picked," McNeeley told ESPN. He's one of four players going in the first round from Florida's Montverde Academy, including Cooper Flagg,

The Charlotte Hornets have selected Liam McNeeley with the No. 29 pick in the 2025 NBA draft. McNeeley racked up accolades in his one season at Connecticut, earning Big East Freshman of the Year, third-team All-Big East honors and a spot on the conference's All-Freshman Team.