The San Antonio Spurs selected Rutgers freshman Dylan Harper as the second overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. The 19-year-old guard, who turned heads throughout the college season, now steps into the NBA spotlight with sky-high expectations.
Harper, a New Jersey native, made his lone season at Rutgers count. He averaged an impressive 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.4 steals across 29 games. Despite a few injury setbacks, Harper emerged as the fifth-best scorer in the Big Ten and was honored with third-team All-Big Ten and All-Freshman Team selections.
His final college performance — a commanding 27 points, 8 assists, 8 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 2 steals — served as a fitting end to a standout freshman campaign and a preview of his NBA potential.
The 6-foot-6 guard, weighing 213.2 pounds, brings versatility and physicality to the Spurs’ roster. Known for his ability to score, defend, and facilitate, Harper’s length, highlighted by a 6-foot-10 wingspan and an 8-foot-6 standing reach, gives him a significant edge over smaller defenders. At the NBA Draft Combine, he showcased a 30.5-inch no-step vertical and a 36.5-inch max vertical, underscoring his athletic prowess.
Harper’s offensive skill set includes advanced shot creation, strong playmaking instincts, and the ability to finish through contact at the rim. He made 50 three-pointers in 29 games, connected on 57% of his two-point attempts, and averaged 5.8 free throw attempts per game — statistics that suggest a player ready to transition smoothly into the NBA.
Although Rutgers had a quiet 2024-25 season, Harper’s consistent performances and high ceiling made him a top prospect. His selection by San Antonio signals the franchise’s commitment to building a dynamic core around rising talent.
With his size, athleticism, and basketball IQ, Dylan Harper could quickly become a pivotal figure in the Spurs’ future. As he prepares to begin his professional journey, the NBA world will be watching closely to see just how high this promising guard can soar.
