The Rutgers Scarlet Knights didn’t live up to the expectations this season. Despite being one of the most talked-about teams in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>, they didn’t make it to the NCAA Tournament.



Unfortunately, not even having two of the top-three prospects in the nation, Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey, was enough for them to go the distance and make history.



Now, with both of them heading to the pros, Harper wanted to uplift his teammate. When asked about Bailey, he explained what made him the best prospect in basketball.



<h2>Dylan Harper gushes about Ace Bailey</h2>



“My favorite part about him is the joy he brings to the game,” Harper said of his teammate. “No matter what is going on, he is going to have high energy and things like that. He is one of those guys who, at 6-foot-10, you can give the ball to him and he can get a bucket at will. That’s really him. He knows how to use his body and get to his spots. There’s no complaints about playing with him at all.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250320_BUS_359116_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_32f7080d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Dylan Harper" class="wp-image-285819" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dylan Harper #2 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights </figcaption></figure>



There’s still no consensus on whether Harper or Bailey will go second-overall, as most scouts believe that Duke star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg </a>is the clear-cut first-overall pick in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft.



Whatever the case, it seems like teams can’t go wrong either way, and it will most likely go down to the team’s needs and fit. Both of them have the potential to become legitimate stars.

Dylan Harper explains why Ace Bailey should be the top pick in the NBA Draft

Dylan Harper explains why Ace Bailey should be the top pick in the NBA Draft - Bolavip US

miniaturas

Long before the start of the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball</a> season, scouts, analysts, and fans were raving about the 2024-25 Rutgers Scarlet Knights. They were a legitimate dark horse, at least on paper.



Fast forward to today, and they didn’t even make it to the NCAA Tournament. As such, March Madness will go underway without Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey, two of the three best prospects in the nation.



However, as disappointing as this turn of events was, Harper has no regrets. When asked about his first and only campaign on campus, he had nothing but positive things to say. 



<h2>Dylan Harper is still thankful for his days at Rutgers</h2>



“Just fortunate for the great time I had here at Rutgers,” Harper told Sports Illustrated. “Even though it looked like we had a lot of ups and downs, I had a great season with a great group of guys and great culture staff. I wouldn’t trade it for the world, but just things I’ve taken away in the season is just really [how] I’ll go about my everyday life, it’s the little things that I gotta do.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250319_BUS_359114_Dylan-Harper-rutgers-1024x576_38aad4a4.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-304003" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130312/Dylan-Harper-rutgers-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130312/Dylan-Harper-rutgers-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130312/Dylan-Harper-rutgers-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130312/Dylan-Harper-rutgers-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130312/Dylan-Harper-rutgers-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130312/Dylan-Harper-rutgers-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130312/Dylan-Harper-rutgers-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130312/Dylan-Harper-rutgers.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dylan Harper #2 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights </figcaption></figure>



At the end of the day, a team’s success doesn’t depend on just one player. Even so, his detractors will most likely try to use him to take him down, as if he weren’t an elite prospect.


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Still, you just need to watch him play for a while to realize that he’s an outstanding player with a sky-high upside, and it won’t be long before we watch him with the pros.

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper gets brutally honest on disappointing season at Rutgers

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper gets brutally honest on disappointing season at Rutgers - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights were one of the most watched and talked-about teams in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> this season. The hype was out of control long before the start of the campaign.



Unfortunately, not even having two future <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> stars like Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey was enough to keep this team afloat. They finished the year 15-17 and 8-12 in conference play.



So, since they failed to make the cut and weren’t invited to the NCAA Tournament, the program announced that they wouldn’t participate in the NIT or the College Basketball Crown either. 



<h2>Rutgers won’t partake in the NIT tournament after disappointing season</h2>



“The Rutgers men’s basketball program will not participate in any postseason tournaments this season,” the statement said. “We would like to thank our players and staff for their hard work this year and our fans for their continued support.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250317_BUS_357506_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_15c42063.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Dylan Harper" class="wp-image-279291" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dylan Harper #2</figcaption></figure>



Even if the team had decided to participate in any other tournament, the chances of watching either Dylan Harper or Ace Bailey suit up would’ve been quite slim, to say the least.


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Now, scouts will only focus on the tape and some individual workouts to determine their positioning in the NBA Draft, but it would be shocking to see either of them fall past the No. 5 spot.

Rutgers makes a big decision about Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper-led team after NCAA Tournament snub

Rutgers makes a big decision about Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper-led team after NCAA Tournament snub - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights have two of the best prospects in all of college basketball. However, as high as Ace Bailey’s ceiling is, Dylan Harper might be more of a sure thing.



In 27 appearances, the younger son of former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>champion Ron Harper posted averages of 19.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.8 three-pointers, and 1.4 steals on 49% shooting and 35% from three-point range.



That’s why ESPN’s NBA Draft expert Jeremy Woo believes he’s the second-best player in the nation, and only Duke’s<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Cooper Flagg</a> should be ahead of him in the rankings. 



<h2>Dylan Harper is second to only Cooper Flagg, says Expert</h2>



“Before we do postseason deep dives, I think he should be [No.] 2. Isn’t he what everyone is looking for? An offensive orchestrator with size. An oversized handler surrounded with shooting and interior defense—he’s just so dynamic. You can build a successful offense around the guy,“ wrote Woo.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250312_BUS_353239_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_22a5091c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Dylan Harper" class="wp-image-285819" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dylan Harper #2 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights </figcaption></figure>



Of course, this seems to be a situation in which a team simply can’t go wrong. Then again, position and fit also matter, and that’s what might make him fall to No. 3 or No. 4, depending on what team makes the pick.


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This has the potential to be one of the greatest classes in NBA Draft history, and it’ll be interesting to look back on these takes five or ten years from now once it’s all said and done.

NBA GM gets real on Dylan Harper’s chances of being a better player than Cooper Flagg

NBA GM gets real on Dylan Harper's chances of being a better player than Cooper Flagg - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights survived their regular season finale, and they may have punched their tickets to March Madness, even though it wasn’t easy and definitely wasn’t pretty.



Despite having Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, the Scarlet Knights had an up-and-down season, and there was a time when it didn’t seem like they would even make it to the NCAA Tournament.



That’s why, even though<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball</a> fans called them a disappointing team, Harper is still thankful for the moments he went through during his freshman year.



<h2>‘Life’s not perfect,’ says Dylan Harper</h2>



“It’s been a lot of ups and downs, but life is not perfect,” Harper said. “Life doesn’t always go the way you want it to go. But me and the guys did a good job bouncing back, now we’ve got a new season ahead.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250311_BUS_353246_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_e1a5f10d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Dylan Harper" class="wp-image-279291" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dylan Harper #2</figcaption></figure>



Barring a shocking turn of events, Harper will be either the second or third-overall pick in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft, which is why he took some time to soak everything in after what may have been his final home game in college.


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We’ve seen crazy things happen in the tournament, and while Rutgers isn’t a flawless team by any means, perhaps Harper and Bailey will turn some heads and get the job done when the lights get the brightest.

Dylan Harper has three words to describe tough season at Rutgers

Dylan Harper has three words to describe tough season at Rutgers - Bolavip US

To say that this situation has been disappointing for the New Orleans Pelicans wouldn’t even tell half of the story. They entered the campaign with high aspirations, yet they could end up with one of the worst records.



Dejounte Murray was barely able to play because of injuries, and they traded the often-hurt Brandon Ingram as well. As for Zion Williamson, he’s always been a rare sight on the court.



However, there might be a light at the end of the tunnel. According to ESPN analyst Jeremy Woo, they could get their hands on Rutgers star PG/SG Dylan Harper with the second-overall pick in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft. 



<h2>Dylan Harper might go No. 2 to the New Orleans Pelicans</h2>



“Quality shot creation on the perimeter remains a major need. Harper’s mix of size, playmaking chops and star power could address many of the issues here at once and bolster the rotation on a roster that is trying to compete while still skewing young,” wrote Woo.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250308_BUS_349896_Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576_f5a38646.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-304004" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dylan Harper #2 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights </figcaption></figure>



Harper isn’t the average point guard. Like Murray, he’s big, tall, and with long arms, and he can play both positions in the backcourt. However, he’s a much better shooter.


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Once again, the Pelicans’ hopes will most likely linger on whether Zion Williamson can stay healthy. In the meantime, they can develop Harper to potentially take his spot as the franchise player.

Dylan Harper and Zion Williamson projected to team up in latest NBA Mock Draft

Dylan Harper and Zion Williamson projected to team up in latest NBA Mock Draft - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights haven’t been the most consistent team in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>this season. Despite having two elite recruits, they’ve had their fair share of struggles.



There were high expectations for Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey, both of whom are projected to be among the first three players taken in the 2025<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA</a> Draft some months from now.



Even so, that didn’t stop them from making history. As pointed out by Hayden Cilley of ClutchPoints, they did something that hadn’t been done since Michigan’s legendary Fab Five back in 1992.



<h2>Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey emulate former NBA stars</h2>



“They made Fab Five history by becoming the first pair of freshmen to score 500+ points in a season” Cilley wrote. “The previous two to do that were Michigan freshman Chris Webber and Jalen Rose. The two helped the Wolverines reach the Final Four before losing to North Carolina.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250306_BUS_349890_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_e435092b.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Dylan Harper" class="wp-image-279291" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dylan Harper #2</figcaption></figure>



Needless to say, that’s some great company to be in. Not only did the Fab Five became one of the most iconic teams in college basketball history, but Rose and Weber went on to have very successful NBA careers.


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The Scarlet Knight have the talent to put together a deep postseason run, and it’ll be up to their two stars to take a leap forward once The Dance starts and March Madness is upon us.

Rutgers star duo of Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey replicate epic Fab Five milestone after epic freshman season

Rutgers star duo of Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey replicate epic Fab Five milestone after epic freshman season - Bolavip US

To say that this <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> season has been an absolute nightmare for the Philadelphia 76ers would be a massive understatement. That doesn’t even come close to describing what they’ve gone through.



The team has struggled with a plethora of injuries, and just when rookie guard Jared McCain was starting to catch fire, he suffered a season-ending injury as well.



That’s why, with the playoffs almost out of reach, former NBA champion Ron Harper urged the team to just call it quits, shut down their veterans, and hope for the best in the NBA Draft lottery.



<h2>Ron Harper urges Sixers to tank</h2>



“If I was the GM of Sixers I’m shutting Joel embiid down and tho king about shutting Paul George down too and hope we get a high lottery pick…. TANK,” he wrote on X.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250305_BUS_348481_Ron-Harper-1024x576_414b45b5.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ron Harper" class="wp-image-161970" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/Ron-Harper-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/Ron-Harper-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/Ron-Harper-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/Ron-Harper-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/Ron-Harper.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ron Harper </figcaption></figure>



This speaks volumes coming from Harper, as his son, Dylan Harper, is expected to be a top-three pick in this year’s draft. Perhaps the old man wants him to play in the City of Brotherly Love.


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The Sixers’ first-round pick is top-six protected, so they need to lose as much as possible to make sure they get to keep it. And if Harper is there by the time they’re on the clock, they should definitely go for him.

Dylan Harper tied to Joel Embiid’s Philadelphia 76ers after father’s latest post

Dylan Harper tied to Joel Embiid's Philadelphia 76ers after father's latest post - Bolavip US

For most of the year, all the talk about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> has centered around three players: Duke’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a>, and Rutgers’ star duo of Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey.



Harper and Bailey have gone back and forth as the potential second-overall pick in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft, with Flagg most likely being the first guy taken off the board.



However, former NBA GM John Hollinger isn’t so sure anymore. In his latest mock draft, he has Baylor star guard/forward V.J. Edgecombe as a serious threat to take down Harper at 2.



<h2>V.J. Edgecombe is climbing the NBA ladder</h2>



“Edgecombe got off to a slow start but has stepped things up markedly in Big 12 play, even though the schedule in that league is a brutal gauntlet. I watched Baylor’s home loss to Arizona a week ago, when Edgecombe scored 24 points while constantly getting to the rim, and it’s that first-step explosiveness that has him so high on draft radars,” wrote Hollinger.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250301_BUS_345320_vj-Edgecombe-1024x576_3a2806dc.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-345314" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/27143347/vj-Edgecombe-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/27143347/vj-Edgecombe-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/27143347/vj-Edgecombe-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/27143347/vj-Edgecombe-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/27143347/vj-Edgecombe-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/27143347/vj-Edgecombe-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/27143347/vj-Edgecombe-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/27143347/vj-Edgecombe.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>VJ Edgecombe</figcaption></figure>



The former general manager believes that his defensive prowess, instincts, and physical tools make him an enticing prospect, perhaps even more than the aforementioned Harper. 



“Throw in that he’s an athletic, ball-hawking defender with a phenomenal steal rate (3.8 swipes per 100 possessions, something the analytics models will love), and Edgecombe has built a real case to go second,“ continued Hollinger.


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Of course, this is one of those cases where it seems like you just can’t go wrong with either one of the prospects you choose, and it’ll be interesting to see how this situation plays out.

Big 12 star could take down Dylan Harper for No. 2 spot in NBA Draft

Big 12 star could take down Dylan Harper for No. 2 spot in NBA Draft - Bolavip US

For months, scouts and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>fans have raved about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a>, and for very good reasons. However, he’s not the only potential superstar in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> right now.



The Rutgers Scarlet Knights have another NBA-caliber talent in Dylan Harper, the son of former NBA champion Ron Harper. Standing at 6-foot-6, he’s much bigger and physical than the average point guard.



Nevertheless, as pointed out by Tyler Rucker of No Ceilings, he’s much more than just a big guard. In his latest column, he explained what makes him such a unique talent.



<h2>Dylan Harper’s size and skills make him a generational talent</h2>



“Until you turn on the tape, you won’t realize that this 6’6” combo guard is quick as lightning with a lethal first step and fantastic hesitations. Harper looks like a prospect that was created to star in a horror film. He gives opponents nightmares with the versatility he has on the offensive side of the ball. Pair all of that with a relentless motor and the mentality to be great, and that’s something that gets NBA front offices drooling,” wrote Rucker.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250225_BUS_343308_Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576_44d5d2e3.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-304004" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31130351/Dylan-Harper-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dylan Harper #2 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights </figcaption></figure>



Harper has had some health issues this season, and his team’s shortcomings have also left some to be desired. Then again, you just need to watch the tape to realize he’s a special talent.


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He’s currently projected to be the third player taken in the 2025 NBA Draft, but as we’ve seen in the past, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he ends up being the best player in his class.

NCAAB News: Analyst explains why Dylan Harper might be the best player in his class

NCAAB News: Analyst explains why Dylan Harper might be the best player in his class - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights needed a big win, and Dylan Harper was there to deliver. Once again, he proved why he’s likely to be the second-overall pick in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft.



Harper had arguably the best game of his <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> career in the overtime win over Washington. He dominated with 34 points, five rebounds, and four assists on 9-of-18 shooting and 4-of-8 from three.



Needless to say, that kind of performance didn’t go unnoticed. It was so impressive that even a former Washington alumni and NBA player like Isaiah Thomas had to give him his flowers.



<h2>Isaiah Thomas admits he’s a fan of Dylan Harper</h2>



“Just being a hoop fan tonight that kid Dylan Harper got real HOOP game,” Thomas wrote on X.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="631" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250220_BUS_340992_isaiah_thomas_lakersjpg_242310155-1024x631_10e8455c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=631" alt="" class="wp-image-174340" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/isaiah_thomas_lakersjpg_242310155-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/isaiah_thomas_lakersjpg_242310155-300x185.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/isaiah_thomas_lakersjpg_242310155-768x474.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/isaiah_thomas_lakersjpg_242310155.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Isaiah Thomas</figcaption></figure>



He’s not the only NBA player to rave about the Rutgers star. Recently, LeBron James also tipped his hat to the young guard, who’s the son of one of his close friends, Ron Harper.


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This win keeps the Scarlet Knights’ tournament hopes alive, but they will still face an uphill battle. Whatever the case, it won’t be much longer before we see Harper do his thing with the pros.

NCAAB News: NBA star gushes after Dylan Harper puts up 34-point explosion in win

NCAAB News: NBA star gushes after Dylan Harper puts up 34-point explosion in win - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights have two of the best prospects in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>. One would assume that it would lead them to success, but that hasn’t been the case.



Despite having two potential<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA</a> stars like Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey, the Scarlet Knights have been a middle-of-the-pack team at best, and analysts don’t really love their chances.



That’s why Portland Trail Blazers beat writer Bill Oram also doubts that they will make an immediate impact on their organization, as they haven’t been able to do that in college.



<h2>Bill Oram doubts Harper and Bailey’s impact on the NBA</h2>



“Rutgers fell to 12-14 on the season with the loss. How is either Harper or Bailey supposed to save an NBA team when they can’t save Rutgers?” he wrote.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250219_BUS_339150_Ace-Bailey-1024x576_da079816.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-290606" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080437/Ace-Bailey-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080437/Ace-Bailey-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080437/Ace-Bailey-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080437/Ace-Bailey-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080437/Ace-Bailey-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080437/Ace-Bailey-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080437/Ace-Bailey-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080437/Ace-Bailey.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ace Bailey #4 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights </figcaption></figure>



Of course, that’s a lot to ask from a rookie. The Blazers need a franchise player, but that doesn’t mean they can’t expect a first-year player to single-handedly rescue them.


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We’ve seen star prospects struggle in college or fail to lead their teams to the top, and that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re not going to be superstars at the next level.

NCAAB News: Blazers analyst doubts Dylan Harper or Ace Bailey can save an NBA team

NCAAB News: Blazers analyst doubts Dylan Harper or Ace Bailey can save an NBA team - Bolavip US

To say that this has been a disappointing season for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights would be a huge understatement, considering the talented freshman duo they have right now.



Unfortunately, Dylan Harper couldn’t uplift his team on Sunday afternoon. The Scarlet Knights lost to Maryland 90-81, and they never had an answer for Derik Queen.



The freshman big man finished the game with 28 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, one block, and one steal. That’s why, after the loss, Dylan Harper had no choice but to tip his hat to him.



<h2>Dylan Harper praises Derik Queen after loss to Maryland</h2>



“It’s always good to face off against Derik,” Harper said. “I mean, we’ve been going back through it since like sixth, seventh grade. So, I mean, we know each other pretty well. But just playing against him, he’s a big force out there. He gets to his spots, plays the game the right way.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250212_BUS_333922_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_b905e87a.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Dylan Harper" class="wp-image-279291" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dylan Harper #2</figcaption></figure>



Of course, this was still a disappointing outing by the Scarlet Knights. Their future NBA stars weren’t at their best, as Ace Bailey was a non-factor as he reportedly battled illness.


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Still, this definitely won’t be the last time they square off with one another. Queen is also projected to be an NBA Draft pick this year, and while he’s not as coveted as Bailey and Harper, he might end up being a star.

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper tips hat to Maryland rival after loss

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper tips hat to Maryland rival after loss - Bolavip US

Dylan Harper still hasn’t played a single second of<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA</a> basketball, but he’s already turned a lot of heads. He was recently chosen as one of the best point guards in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>, and for good reasons.



Even though the Rutgers Scarlet Knights have struggled to find consistency this season, and even despite his ankle injury, Harper has looked like a future NBA star in the making.



That’s why even <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> tipped his hat to him recently. When asked about that, Harper, the son of NBA champion Ron Harper, was humbled and happy to hear James’ praise. 



<h2>Dylan Harper reacts to LeBron James’ praise</h2>



“It means a lot. That’s someone that I think, not just me, a lot of people look up to. Just watching how much he’s done for the game, everything he’s still put into it. He’s been playing for about 21, 22 years I mean, that’s hard to do in that league, great players. He just rises over the top,” Harper said. “I’ve known him for a little while now. Him and my dad are great friends, both from Ohio. So every time I get to see him, it’s a great time.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250210_BUS_329721_leBron-James-1024x559_ecdc65d9.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=559" alt="leBron-James" class="wp-image-326712" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/02133837/leBron-James-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/02133837/leBron-James-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/02133837/leBron-James-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/02133837/leBron-James-1536x838.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/02133837/leBron-James.jpg 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers </figcaption></figure>



The NBA is like a big family at times, and most players actually go way back with one another. That’s why they know what they’re capable of even before some scouts realize it.


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Nepotism or not, Harper seems to have a bright future ahead of him. And if you don’t take our word for it, he already has LeBron James’ stamp of approval, and that should be more than enough.

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper responds to LeBron James’ epic shout-out

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper responds to LeBron James' epic shout-out - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights got their other star back. Dylan Harper, who had been out and struggling with an ankle injury for the past couple of weeks, was finally able to return.



It wasn’t much of a coincidence to see Rutgers being back to their best with him on the court and back to full strength, and they even took down No. 23 Illinois in a big upset win.



Harper has been deemed one of the best prospects in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">co</a>llege basketball. That’s his fellow future <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>er, Ace Bailey, wanted to give him his flowers and talk about how he makes it easier for him to be at his best.



<h2>Ace Bailey raves about Dylan Harper’s impact</h2>



“It opens up a lot for us, I mean can’t double me,” Bailey said. “I mean once he gets downhill, he can attack the rim, put pressure on the rim any time, kick out. I mean he’s 6-foot-6 and he can rebound, so just having another person out there to rebound, open up, playmaker, get us open, attack at the same time that’s good.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250206_BUS_329700_Ace-Bailey-1-1024x576_1e452bfb.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-290607" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080550/Ace-Bailey-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080550/Ace-Bailey-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080550/Ace-Bailey-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080550/Ace-Bailey-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080550/Ace-Bailey-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080550/Ace-Bailey-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080550/Ace-Bailey-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080550/Ace-Bailey-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>ce Bailey #4 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights</figcaption></figure>



It’s nice to see that Harper, who’s projected to be a top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, still chose to keep fighting and play through an ankle injury. Other players in his position would’ve opted not to play anymore.


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Rutgers can still make it to the NCAA Tournament, but it will be easier said than done. Even so, with this kind of talented duo, you have to like their chances against anybody.

NCAAB News: Ace Bailey explains how Dylan Harper makes him better

NCAAB News: Ace Bailey explains how Dylan Harper makes him better - Bolavip US

Latest news from Dylan Harper. Find out about all the news related to Dylan Harper on bolavip.com/en

Dylan Harper - Page 2