Dylan Harper Selected No. 2 in NBA Draft, Ushering in New Era for Rutgers Basketball
The Rutgers standout and New Jersey native was chosen second overall by the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday, marking a historic night for the program and the state’s basketball legacy.
NEW YORK – A moment years in the making arrived Wednesday night as Dylan Harper, the highly touted point guard from Rutgers university, was selected No. 2 overall in the 2025 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs. The 6-foot-6 Harper becomes the first New jersey college basketball alum to be drafted this high in the modern era, surpassing the pre-draft territorial picks of Seton Hall’s Walter Dukes and Princeton’s Bill Bradley in the 1950s and 60s. Adding to the celebration, Harper’s former Rutgers teammate, Ace Bailey, was selected No. 5 overall by the Utah Jazz, further cementing New Jersey’s place in college basketball history.
“We took a chance on Rutgers,” Harper stated after being selected.”I think me and [Bailey] probably got the best experience we could have got out of it just from the standpoint of the highs and lows and the great people taking care of us. I feel like the Spurs are definitely just like that, but just a different level, next level. Just great people around.”
Harper’s selection continues a proud family tradition. His father, Ron harper, was the eighth overall pick in the 1986 draft and went on to win five NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. His older brother, Ron Harper Jr., currently holds a two-way contract with the detroit Pistons, having appeared in 11 NBA games since graduating from Rutgers in 2022. The younger Harper acknowledged the significance of the moment for his family. “this definitely means a lot to [my dad] and a lot to my mom, my grandparents, my brother and everyone else who’s been ther, because they’ve seen me through the journey,” he said prior to the draft. “I got to see my brother’s journey from the time he was young to the time he was ready to go to the league – seeing his journey really helped me and showed me how hard you have to work.”
The newly drafted Spur also offered heartfelt gratitude to his mother, Maria Harper, a former college basketball player who coached him throughout his childhood. “She means the world to me,” Harper shared. “She’s been coaching me from like first grade all the way to senior year of high school. For her to see this moment and just to be there for my journey and see all the good and all the bad, it probably means the world to her just as much as me. I love my mom. Everything I do is definitely for her.”
Duke forward Cooper Flagg was selected first overall by the Dallas Mavericks,as widely anticipated. The only surprise at the top of the draft was Bailey’s selection at no. 5, with pre-draft speculation suggesting his representatives were attempting to secure a different landing spot. Harper expressed his joy for his teammate, saying, “I love that guy, man. Y’all understand the stuff he’s been through,all the bad talk,everyone talking about him. He just continues to put a smile on his face every day, and every day no matter what’s going on. I’m so happy for him. The sky’s the limit.”
A Landmark Achievement for Rutgers and New Jersey Basketball
dylan Harper’s draft position represents a important milestone for Rutgers basketball. He is the 25th player from Rutgers to be drafted into the NBA and the fifth to be selected in the first round, joining Quincy douby (19th overall in 2006), Dahntay Jones (20th overall in 2003), Roy Hinson (20th overall in 1983), and James Bailey (sixth overall in 1979). He is also the 22nd former New Jersey college basketball player to be drafted in the first round, the first as Rider’s jason thompson was selected 12th overall in 2008. The last native New Jerseyan drafted this high was Karl-Anthony Towns, who went No. 1 overall to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2015.
Harper’s path to the NBA wasn’t without consideration of other options. He nearly committed to Duke but ultimately chose Rutgers, where he earned McDonald’s All-America honors as a senior at Don Bosco Prep. As a freshman for the Scarlet Knights, Harper averaged 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, shooting 48.4% from the field, 33.3% from three-point range, and 75% from the free-throw line. Despite missing games due to illness and injury, and Rutgers finishing with a 15-17 record, Harper’s potential was undeniable.
NBA scouts consistently praised Harper’s versatility and potential. “dylan does more things than just shoot; he can get to the basket, he can create for others, he has the [family] pedigree,” explained Daniel Marks, former manager of prospect data for the Milwaukee Bucks and current chief program strategist for Howard University men’s basketball. “He’s got size at 6-6 and a strong body, is a pretty good athlete, can score at all three levels. Obviously he has the pedigree with his dad’s career, so he’s been around the [pro] game. Having those lead guards that can anchor a team offensively is so valuable. The ability to play both positions, the scoring instincts – he’s just a natural.”
The success of Harper and Bailey signals a potential turning point for Rutgers basketball and New Jersey’s role in producing top-tier NBA talent. .
The draft night marked a historic occasion, not only for Harper and Bailey but for the entire state of New Jersey, solidifying its position as a breeding ground for future NBA stars.
A New Hope in San Antonio: How Harper Fits with the Spurs
Dylan HarperS selection by the San Antonio Spurs at No. 2 overall presents an exciting chapter for both the young guard and the storied franchise. This picks up on the theme of a new era for rutgers basketball. Harper’s versatile skillset and basketball IQ perfectly align with the Spurs’ developmental philosophy and long-term vision to build championship teams.
The Spurs, renowned for their player growth and systematic approach, are an ideal landing spot for Harper. Harper’s potential is immense, and his development under the Spurs’ tutelage could see him become a cornerstone player. The Spurs have a proven track record of nurturing talent,transforming promising prospects into All-Stars. This success includes Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Kawhi Leonard, and, if we are honest, Victor Wembanyama.
Harper’s offensive versatility, notably his ability to score at all three levels, will be a valuable asset to the Spurs. He’s a polished playmaker who can create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.This is critical in today’s NBA. harper’s ability to handle the ball and run the offense is a perfect pairing for the direction that the Spurs have been moving since the arrival of Victor wembanyama. His defensive potential,with his size and athleticism,further enhances his value.
The spurs’ coaching staff will likely focus on honing Harper’s decision-making,improving his consistency from beyond the arc,and refining his defensive skills to maximize his NBA impact. The Spurs’ coaching staff’s wealth of experience in crafting elite players is an enormous advantage that Harper faces.
- Skill Development: Individualized coaching sessions dedicated to refining Harper’s shooting form, ball-handling skills, and court vision.
- Strength and Conditioning: A tailored program designed to enhance Harper’s physical strength, agility, and stamina, reducing the risk of injuries.
- Film Study: In-depth analysis of Harper’s performances, focusing on areas for advancement and strategic decision-making.
- Team Integration: Seamless integration into the Spurs’ offensive and defensive schemes, allowing Harper to understand his role within the team.
- Mentorship: Guidance from veteran players and coaches, providing Harper with valuable insights and experiences to navigate the NBA landscape.
The San Antonio Spurs offer a unique environment for Harper’s growth. The association places a strong emphasis on professionalism, work ethic, and team-first mentality, which are values that align with Harper’s character. This is a key to their success.
The long-term prospects for Harper and the Spurs are radiant. With the proper coaching and development, Harper could evolve into a key factor for the Spurs.His talent has the potential to help the franchise in years to come. The future is bright in San Antonio.
