“One of my keys to the Spurs‘ success is Devin Vassell. I think he’s underrated. He’s sneaky and super athletic on both ends of the floor. He’s just got to stay healthy, stay on the floor… When people look at their roster, they forget about him. He’s like a really good player. So I think he gives them like a really good third scoring option that can go off and be that X-factor when they need it,” Matt Bonner said, via SiriusXM NBA Radio.

Although Devin Vassell did not emerge as the Spurs’ most outstanding player, his performance last season was solid. In 64 games, he averaged 16.3 points and contributed 4 rebounds and 2.9 assists. Injuries, however, hindered him from playing a more prominent role. Despite this, if he can maintain his physical rhythm, he could become crucial to the team, as his versatility could be invaluable for a squad brimming with young talent.

Spurs bank on Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox duo to change their offense

Even if both players shared some court time last season, injuries limited their opportunities to develop into a formidable offensive duo. As a result, head coach Mitch Johnson is optimistic that the blend of Victor Wembanyama’s versatile skill set and De’Aaron Fox’s seasoned experience will elevate them to contender status once again.

In the 2024-25 season, Victor played only 46 games but impressed with his scoring, averaging 24.3 points and 11 rebounds per game. Despite his standout performance, he often appeared isolated on offense. Fox’s presence could change this, yet their ability to create plays together remains questionable. Neither Wembanyama nor De’Aaron is known for elite passing, and with playmaker Chris Paul leaving the franchise, their creative synergy faces a stern test.

Will Dylan Harper have a protagonist role in his rookie season in Mitch Johnson’s roster?

Dylan Harper, a top NBA prospect alongside Cooper Flagg, enters his rookie season with the San Antonio Spurs amidst high expectations. While fans anticipate a leading role for him, De’Aaron Fox’s presence may test his aspirations.

Nonetheless, Harper may have opportunities in a creative role, fulfilling a key need in the roster and earning more playing time. From now, he is expected to secure a rotation spot, akin to Flagg’s predicted role with the Mavericks.

Harper and Edgecombe have impressed in their Summer League debuts, showcasing the talent that earned them top-five draft selections. But their picks for the greatest starting five in NBA history sparked just as much interest as their on-court play.

Dylan Harper’s all-time starting five showcases his appreciation for versatility and dominance across positions. At point guard, he places LeBron James, highlighting the superstar’s unique ability to initiate offense despite being traditionally listed as a forward. He rounds out his lineup with Michael Jordan at shooting guard, Kawhi Leonard at small forward, Tim Duncan at power forward, and Shaquille O’Neal at center—combining elite two-way players with championship pedigree.

VJ Edgecombe, meanwhile, takes a slightly different approach with his all-time five. He opts for Stephen Curry at point guard, favoring the revolutionary shooter over LeBron in that role. His backcourt is completed by Michael Jordan, while the forward spots go to LeBron James and Kevin Durant. Like Harper, he also selects Shaquille O’Neal to anchor the lineup at center, valuing the Hall of Famer’s sheer dominance in the paint.

Both players include LeBron James, Michael Jordan, and Shaquille O’Neal in their lists, but Harper takes a creative turn by slotting LeBron in at point guard, leaning on his versatility. Meanwhile, Edgecombe stays more traditional with Curry running the point.

Notably absent from both lineups are NBA legends like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, as well as dominant big men such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Wilt Chamberlain. That may speak more to generational influence than oversight—after all, today’s prospects grew up idolizing stars of the 2000s and 2010s rather than those from previous eras.

Harper played just two games in the Summer League before the Spurs opted to shut him down. He averaged 16 points, four rebounds, two assists, and one steal, shooting 35.7% from the field.

Edgecombe, on the other hand, logged two Summer League appearances as well, averaging an impressive 21.5 points, eight rebounds, and four assists per game with the 76ers. At just 19 years old, both Harper and Edgecombe are already beginning to shape their own legacies in the NBA.

It marked Harper’s official Summer League debut after missing the Spurs’ first four games, including three during the California Classic in San Francisco. The No. 2 overall pick made an immediate impact, providing a glimpse of his potential in what could be the first of many future showdowns against Flagg and the Mavericks.

“We play him a lot this year, so the future battles are gonna be great,” Harper said when asked about facing Dallas. “One thing he and I got, and the rest of this class got, is that we’re competitors. We’re gonna go out there and compete.”

Harper finished with 16 points, six rebounds, two steals, and two assists in just 17 minutes of action. He also fed off the lively atmosphere inside the Thomas & Mack Center, energizing the crowd with his aggressive play and confidence on the ball.

“The crowd was great today,” said the 19-year-old guard. “What better time to come back than a game like this with a crowd as electrifying as this? We kind of showed the NBA what we’re about.”

The first half of the game was tightly contested, featuring four lead changes and four ties. Dallas went into halftime up 33–32, thanks in large part to Flagg’s 15-point first half. However, San Antonio stormed back in the third quarter, outscoring the Mavericks 26–17 while shooting 52.6% from the field, taking a 59–49 lead into the final frame.

Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick, delivered another eye-catching performance despite the loss. He finished with 31 points on 10-of-21 shooting, including 3-of-9 from beyond the arc. The rookie also added four rebounds and an assist.

However, Flagg struggled from the free-throw line, converting just 8-of-13 attempts. He addressed the issue with a touch of humor postgame, acknowledging the need to improve that part of his game but remaining confident in his overall performance.

“I talk to him the most. About just the game and the speed and just how he adapted to it from a FIBA standpoint to coming over here,” Harper said about Ginobili in a recent interview with Marc J. Spears of Andscape.

While Manu and Dylan followed very different paths to the NBA, the Argentine icon’s experience can still serve as valuable guidance for the rookie. That adjustment Harper mentioned was relatively quick for Ginobili—he arrived in the United States as one of Europe’s biggest stars and helped the Spurs win the 2003 NBA title in his rookie season.

On the topics they’ve discussed, the 19-year-old guard revealed: “What was his biggest changes being a player and being professional outside of basketball? What kept you locked in? Just all little things I think that every NBA player goes through.”

Harper entered the league as one of the most exciting young prospects, along with Cooper Flagg. He earned that status with an impressive stint at Rutgers during the 2024–25 season, where he averaged 19.4 points, 4.0 assists, and 4.6 rebounds in 29 games.

Upon arriving in San Antonio, Dylan didn’t just get the chance to speak with Ginobili—he also interacted with other Spurs legends, including recently retired head coach Gregg Popovich and five-time NBA champion Tim Duncan.

“I met Pop the first day I was there, and Tim,” Harper shared. “Pop was there getting treatment and doing exercises. That is not regular in any NBA gym. You see a Hall of Fame coach, a Hall of Fame player walking around the gym. And they are there like every day. I can pick their brain and ask questions.”

With their focus now on the upcoming season, the Spurs are aiming to end a long playoff drought that has lasted several seasons. They’ve missed the postseason for six straight years, and in their last two appearances in 2018 and 2019, they were eliminated in the first round. Now, with a young core beginning to come together, the outlook is far more promising.

Bailey wasn’t the only Scarlet Knight to make the leap to the NBA on Wednesday. The Spurs selected Harper with the second pick, adding him to a promising backcourt alongside Stephon Castle and De’Aaron Fox. While Harper celebrated the milestone, he also used his appearance on 7PM in Brooklyn on Thursday to address the controversy swirling around Bailey’s response to being drafted by Utah.

In a conversation with Carmelo Anthony, Harper offered strong praise for Bailey’s game and emphasized why he believes the Jazz landed an ideal fit. He framed Bailey as a player who brings elite skill and positive energy to any team he joins — both on and off the floor.

“I mean, he’s what — 6’8″, 6’9″, gets to his spots, rises up over people,” Harper said. “I think his IQ is very underrated. It’s hard to get to your spots like he does. Like, he doesn’t care if there are two or three guys in front of him — he’s going to get to his spot and shoot over you.”

Harper continued, “The way he approaches the game, any team’s going to love him. He brings energy every day. If you’re talking about someone who never runs out of energy and can be a vocal leader in the locker room — someone who’ll make you laugh and keep everyone connected — that’s him.”

Despite Harper’s praise, Bailey has yet to fully embrace his new team. According to multiple reports, Bailey declined to travel to Utah with fellow Jazz first-rounder Walter Clayton Jr. That decision follows pre-draft efforts by Bailey’s camp to steer him away from certain destinations, including allegedly warning at least one team in the top five not to select him.

The Jazz, led by Danny Ainge, moved forward regardless. At No. 5, they selected the player they believed had the most upside. Utah, in desperate need of wing depth and scoring versatility, sees Bailey as someone who can step in and contribute immediately.

Now, all eyes turn to whether Bailey will show up and commit to the Jazz. If he attempts to hold out, Ainge and Utah could take disciplinary action — including suspending him or refusing to accommodate a trade request — a scenario that could quickly escalate into one of the offseason’s biggest stories.

Dylan Harper’s entry into the NBA with the San Antonio Spurs comes with a rookie contract that matches his rising star status. The deal reflects both guaranteed salary and incentives, signaling the team’s commitment.

Balancing promise and pressure, his contract includes typical rookie terms but also potential bonuses tied to performance milestones. It’s a financial blueprint that rewards growth while setting clear expectations for this young point guard.

More than just numbers, his contract symbolizes a new beginning—a stepping stone toward a lasting NBA career. It marks the start of a journey where talent meets opportunity in the heart of San Antonio’s basketball culture.

What is Dylan Harper’s salary with the San Antonio Spurs?

Dylan Harper’s rookie contract with the San Antonio Spurs is valued at approximately $56.1 million, with $25.4 million guaranteed in the first two seasons. This makes his earnings surpass the entire NBA career earnings of his father, Ron Harper.

The contract follows the NBA rookie salary scale, featuring annual raises and team options for the later years. It reflects the Spurs’ confidence in his potential to be a foundational player alongside Victor Wembanyama.

How long will Dylan Harper be with the Spurs?

Dylan Harper is signed to a four-year contract with the San Antonio Spurs, including two guaranteed years and two team options. This structure allows the Spurs to evaluate his progress while maintaining roster flexibility.

The duration fits the Spurs’ approach of developing young talent gradually, as seen with players like Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. His contract is designed to support steady growth within the team’s system.

Dylan Harper didn’t just carry a famous last name—he brought his own spotlight to Rutgers. Son of NBA veteran Ron Harper, the New Jersey native stepped into college with both legacy and promise on his shoulders.

A five-star recruit with national attention, he turned down powerhouse programs to stay close to home. His play with the Scarlet Knights showcased a rare mix of patience, physicality and high-IQ basketball instincts.

After a standout freshman season, he suits up for the San Antonio Spurs, where his next chapter begins. Whether scoring, facilitating or defending, he plays like someone with more to prove and a story still unfolding.

How old is Dylan Harper?

Dylan Harper was born on March 2, 2006, which makes him 19 years old as of June 2025. He brought maturity to the floor right from his freshman season—an early adult in a college landscape filled with potential NBA-bound talent.

How tall is Dylan Harper?

Standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 220 pounds, Dylan Harper’s size gives him a versatile edge as both a point guard and shooting guard. His length allows him to drive past smaller defenders and see over the defense, though scouts continue to emphasize the need for refinement in his outside shooting.

What team did Dylan Harper play for in college?

Dylan Harper chose to play for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the 2024–25 NCAA season, becoming the highest-rated recruit in program history. While blue-blood schools like Duke, Kansas and Auburn were in heavy pursuit, Harper opted to stay close to home.

He joined a Rutgers squad with expectations unlike any in recent memory. He wasn’t walking into a rebuild—he was expected to elevate an already solid foundation into something more formidable. With his brother Ron Harper Jr.’s legacy still fresh at the university, his arrival carried a unique mix of nostalgia and anticipation.

As a freshman, he stepped in as the lead guard and floor general, setting the tone on offense while defending at a high level. Whether it was distributing the ball, scoring in isolation, or rallying the team late in games, his presence reshaped Rutgers’ identity and brought national attention to Piscataway once again.

Dylan Harper’s career highlights

• Morgan Wootten National Player of the Year and McDonald’s All-American Co-MVP (2024): Before ever stepping foot on a college court, Harper earned some of the highest honors a high school player can receive. Named the Morgan Wootten National Player of the Year for his leadership and performance, he also co-headlined the 2024 McDonald’s All-American Game, where he was named Co-MVP after a 22-point, 6-assist showing that highlighted his elite shot-creation and playmaking.

• Third-Team All-Big Ten and Big Ten All-Freshman Team (2025): Harper didn’t just survive his freshman year—he stood out. Averaging 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, he earned a spot on both the All-Big Ten Third Team and the Big Ten All-Freshman Team. He was one of just two freshmen in the nation to average at least 19 points while maintaining over 4 rebounds and 4 assists, a stat line that spoke volumes about his all-around value.

• Broke Rutgers’ freshman scoring record: With 564 total points, Harper set a new standard for freshmen at Rutgers, surpassing the previous record set by Mike Rosario in 2009. This wasn’t just a record—Harper achieved it with efficiency and consistency, becoming a nightly scoring threat against top-tier Big Ten defenses.

• 36-Point Game vs. Notre Dame in OT Win: One of the defining moments of his season came in a non-conference battle where Harper dropped 36 points, including key buckets in overtime, along with 6 rebounds and 6 assists. It was a signature game that combined scoring, control, and leadership—an early “I’ve arrived” moment.

• Back-to-Back 30+ Point Games vs. Alabama and Washington: In a two-game stretch that turned heads nationally, Harper scored 37 points vs. Alabama followed by 34 against Washington, showcasing his stamina, range, and ability to carry an offense against elite competition. These games solidified his reputation as one of the nation’s top offensive freshmen.

• First Rutgers freshman triple-double since 1983: Against Columbia, Harper delivered 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 assists, becoming the first Rutgers freshman in over four decades to record a triple-double. His passing and rebounding often fly under the radar—but this game showed just how multidimensional his impact can be.

• Team USA – U19 FIBA World Cup (2023): Representing the United States in the FIBA U19 World Cup in Hungary, Harper gained valuable international experience, averaging 9.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game while playing a role that demanded both composure and chemistry. It was an early glimpse of how his game translates globally.

• Efficient scoring throughout the season: Harper’s freshman efficiency was no fluke: he shot 48.4% from the field, 33.3% from beyond the arc, and 75% from the free-throw line, while maintaining a usage rate typically reserved for veteran guards. He didn’t just take shots—he made them, and often in high-pressure moments.

The Spurs have the necessary assets to trade for the two-time NBA champion and future Hall of Famer, including the second-overall pick in this month’s star-studded NBA Draft.

Nevertheless, ESPN insider Michael C. Wright thinks they won’t be that interested in his services, as they would rather use that pick to get Rutgers combo guard Dylan Harper.

The Spurs won’t trade Dylan Harper for Kevin Durant

“Aren’t likely to relinquish the No. 2 pick for Durant because, according to sources, it’s expected they’ll draft Dylan Harper to add to a talented young core featuring Wembanyama and Castle,” reported Wright.

At the end of the day, the Spurs are taking a big risk by rolling the dice on a prospect as opposed to going after a proven commodity. Then again, that goes to show you how impressive a prospect Harper is.

The Spurs already have De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle, but they won’t hesitate to add another talented guard to the mix because they firmly believe he can be a superstar for years to come.

Adding Rutgers PG/SG Dylan Harper next to Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle is a mouth-watering thought for Gregg Popovich and new head coach Mitch Johnson.

Nevertheless, Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report believes that the Spurs could pivot and not only trade the No. 2 pick but also move on from Castle if Giannis Antetokounmpo requests a trade.

The Spurs could trade the No. 2 pick to get Giannis

“Milwaukee would instantly go from totally stuck to on its way toward a meaningful rebuild. And with two top-flight prospects (Castle and potentially Dylan Harper) already in place,” Bailey reported. “The Spurs, meanwhile, would suddenly have one of the biggest and most talented frontcourts in league history with Giannis and Victor Wembanyama. And their games would complement each other brilliantly.”

The Milwaukee Bucks don’t control their destiny in the draft for the next couple of years, so they have no incentive to tank. As such, landing high-impact players should be their top priority in any potential Giannis trade.

Then again, it would also be very difficult for them to pass on a chance to build their roster around a backcourt featuring Castle and Harper, even if they would obviously rather keep their franchise player for a little longer.

Both players joined Steve Pikiell’s team ahead of the 2024-25 season. They finished with a 15-17 overall record (8-12 in the Big Ten), finishing their season with a 97-89 double overtime loss to the USC Trojans in the first round of their conference tournament.

Harper finished his season playing 46 minutes, scoring 27 points, grabbing eight rebounds, dishing out eight assists, stealing two balls and blocking two shots. Overall, he 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 deep and 75% from the free-throw line.

Brooklyn Nets reportedly unlikely to trade up for Dylan Harper

Ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, Harper has been linked with the Brooklyn Nets, a team with a young core hungry to make it to the next level. They currently have the No. 8 overall pick, but it’s unlikely that they trade up to take the No. 2 selection to pick Harper.

Brian Lewis of the New York Post reported on Tuesday that the possibility is off the table.

“Unlikely. Matter of fact I might even go highly unlikely,” Lewis said. “That’s from multiple sources. You never say never, but I think that’s something that I wouldn’t count on seeing happening. Trading up? Maybe. And I’m sure they’d love to have Dylan Harper, but the odds of him landing here in Brooklyn, not very good.”

If there wasn’t another prospect called Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper would be the No. 1 overall pick in the eyes of many teams. The San Antonio Spurs own the No. 2 overall pick and they could add another rookie phenom for a third consecutive year to keep building a championship-caliber team.

He spent most of the season as the second-best prospect behind only Cooper Flagg, and not even an injury and failing to make the NCAA Tournament was enough to change that.

Notably, that’s why NBA Draft expert Jonathan Givony believes that Gregg Popovich won’t hesitate to take him with the No. 2 pick and pair him with Victor Wembanyama, even if they already have De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle.

NBA Draft expert says Dylan Harper will play for the San Antonio Spurs

“They are not pursuing trades from what we’re hearing,” Givony said. “They think that they can play Harper together with Steph Castle and De’Aaron Fox in the same backcourt.”

Of course, the Spurs’ backcourt logjam will be a subject of debate, as they could perhaps go with another player who’s a better fit next to Fox and Castle. Then again, Harper is just too good and too NBA-ready to pass on.

At the end of the day, the best players and coaches figure out a way to coexist, and Mitch Johnson proved to be a great coach. The Spurs are back, and this is just the beginning.