Despite having two of the most talented players in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights still haven’t been able to find much success on the court this season.



Even so, Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper continue to turn a lot of heads. Unfortunately, the latter has missed some time with an ankle injury, and he’s currently in a walking boot.



Nevertheless, analysts and committee members still know how good of a player he is. As announced by the program in a statement, he was just nominated for the Bob Cousy Award, which is given to the best point guard in Division I.



<h2>Dylan Harper gets Bob Cousy Award nomination</h2>



“Dylan Harper has had a stellar freshman season at Rutgers averaging 18.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists-per-game while shooting 48.8 percent from the field. The Franklin Lakes native has played in 19 games this season. Harper has had some unbelievable moments having the first triple-double at Rutgers since 1983 in the win over Columbia, hitting the game-winner against Seton Hall, and having back-to-back 35-point plus performances at the Player’s Era Tournament in Las Vegas. Harper is a three-time Big Ten Freshman of the Week and won the NCAA’s National Player of the Week this season,” read the statement.



<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_20250204_BUS_328165_Dylan-Harper-rutgers-1024x576_e86cffdc.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>



Dylan is currently projected as the second-best prospect entering the NBA this season, and for very good reasons. However, that also puts a question mark on his future with the program.


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With his struggles with an ankle injury and a certain future in the league, Harper and his camp might decide to shut him down for the remainder of the season to prevent further injuries.

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper gets ultimate D1 honor despite injury

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper gets ultimate D1 honor despite injury - Bolavip US

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Even in his absence, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights were able to weather the storm without Dylan Harper. Ace Bailey took things into his own hands to take down Northwestern.



The projected top-three pick in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>Draft couldn’t suit up to play in his team’s last game, as he continues to deal with a nagging ankle injury that also limited him in his last outing.



Coach Steve Pikiell had already praised Harper’s toughness for trying to play through the injury. However, Brian Fonseca of NJ has some less-than-encouraging news.



<h2>Dylan Harper is currently on a walking boot</h2>



“Dylan Harper is OUT for tonight’s game against Northwestern. He is evaluated as day-to-day, putting his availability for Saturday’s game against Michigan in question. Harper has been seen in a walking boot on multiple occasions since Saturday,” 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_20250130_BUS_324960_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_a83f98a7.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>



Harper is reportedly being listed as day-to-day, but we’ve already seen this kind of thing in the past. His team might not even make the NCAA tournament, so there might be no point in rushing him.


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As much as the fans would want to watch him and as much as he should want to play, he can’t put his future at risk. Maybe, if this condition lingers, he will be wise to shut himself down for the season and focus on the NBA Draft.

NCAAB News: Insider has terrible news about Dylan Harper

NCAAB News: Insider has terrible news about Dylan Harper - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights haven’t found that much success this season. That’s a bit of a surprise, considering that they have the most exciting duo in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>.



Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper are projected to be top-three picks in the 2025 NBA Draft, with scouts going back and forth about who should go first between the two young stars.



With that in mind, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> tipped his hat to him, talking about his special talent and the relationship they’ve built because of his friendship with his father, Ron Harper.



<h2>LeBron James says Dylan Harper is a ‘special kid’</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I’ve been watching him for quite a while,” James said. “He calls me unc and I call him nephew. I love what he’s been doing at Rutgers but I’ve been watching him for a long time now. A special kid, a special talent. He’s going to be really good in this league, comes from a great family. Me and Harp, his pops, go a while back. I’m excited for what he’s been doing right now at Rutgers and what he’s going to continue to do in the future.”</blockquote>



<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_20250128_BUS_323431_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_246b07dd.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 celebrates defeating Notre Dame Fighting Irish 85-84 in overtime of their game during the Players Era Festival basketball tournament at MGM Grand Garden Arena on November 26, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.</figcaption></figure>



Through 19 games this season, the five-star freshman has posted averages of 18.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.1 steals in 31.4 minutes while shooting 48% from the field and almost 34% from deep.


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Unfortunately, Harper wasn’t much of a factor in his team’s loss to Michigan State. He’s dealing with an ankle injury, and it’ll be interesting to see if he decides to play through it or stay healthy for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft.

NCAAB News: LeBron James raves about ‘special’ Dylan Harper

NCAAB News: LeBron James raves about 'special' Dylan Harper - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights needed a strong effort to try and come back against No. 8 Michigan State on Saturday at Madison Square Garden. Unfortunately, one of their best players didn’t get the memo.



Star freshman Dylan Harper was on the floor for just 13 minutes. Coach Steve Pikiell benched him for the final 18:30 of the game in what ended up being a seven-point loss.



Harper didn’t play well when he was on the floor, and following the loss, coach Pikiell admitted that he had been dealing with an ankle sprain, adding that he shouldn’t have played at all.



<h2 id="6BY67PUT7BAKROSPC74UJNIPNQ">Dylan Harper is dealing with an ankle injury</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“It’s just an ankle sprain that needs a little more time,” Pikiell said. “He’s tough as nails. I’m proud of him. He was in that training room, lived there practically for a couple days. I honestly did not think he was going to play. He said ‘let me give it a whirl’ and he gave us 13 minutes. That says a lot about him.”</blockquote>



<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_20250128_BUS_323432_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_da24fa68.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 and Jordan Derkack #0 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights react during the first half of their game against the Wagner Seahawks at Jersey Mike’s Arena on November 6, 2024 in Piscataway, New Jersey.</figcaption></figure>



Harper struggled from the field. He scored just six points on 2-of-4 minutes, missing his only three-point attempt and going 2-of-4 from the free-throw line as well. That’s why Spartans coach Tom Izzo knew his team dodged a bullet:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“That kid is a hell of a player,” Izzo said. “Your quarterback is your quarterback. He makes all the other players better. … As much as it was a break for us, I felt bad because he seems like a great kid.”</blockquote>


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It wasn’t much of a surprise to see the team lose without their best player. Rutgers shot 33.8% from the floor, and they even missed 11 consecutive shots at one point.

NCAAB News: Rutgers coach gets real on Dylan Harper’s struggles vs. Michigan State

NCAAB News: Rutgers coach gets real on Dylan Harper's struggles vs. Michigan State - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights could use a helping hand right now. Despite having the most exciting duo in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball,</a> they’re just 8-7 for the season and 1-3 in the Big Ten.



Notably, not even Dylan Harper could help them in his latest outing. The projected top NBA Draft pick was erratic in the loss to Wisconsin, and he clearly didn’t look like himself.



Something had to be going on for a player of his caliber to go scoreless. Now, his coach reveals that he’s been battling through severe flu over the past week or so, and he’s still not feeling all that well.



<h2>Dylan Harper is struggling with the flu </h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“He certainly was (struggling with the flu). I’m proud of him, he wanted to go tonight,” coach Steve Pikiell told reporters after the game. “But obviously, that flu has taken a lot of him and we got to get him back to normal. I appreciated his effort trying but he didn’t have what he obviously normally has. So we got to get him healthy, it’s that time of the year.”</blockquote>



<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_20250110_BUS_308880_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_b7d02a06.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 and Jordan Derkack #0 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights react during the first half of their game against the Wagner Seahawks at Jersey Mike’s Arena on November 6, 2024 in Piscataway, New Jersey.</figcaption></figure>



Pikiell confirmed the reports that Harper has lost nine pounds with the illness, Needless to say, they will give him as much time as he needs to get back on his feet:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“The flu is bad. He’s been in the middle of it. It’s a bad strand. He hasn’t eaten – that’s what the flu does to you,” Pikiell said. “I appreciate him trying today. Obviously, he wants to be out there for his teammates but he just didn’t have the energy that he usually has. It’s understandable.”</blockquote>


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Harper is in danger of missing another game with the flu, and his team will clearly miss him, as he’s averaging a team-best 22.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists for the season.

NCAAB News: Rutgers coach makes worrisome admission about Dylan Harper's health

NCAAB News: Rutgers coach makes worrisome admission about Dylan Harper's health - Bolavip US

For the first time in quite a long time, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights have stolen plenty of headlines. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> scene has been in awe of their two best players.



Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey are the most prominent duo in the nation, and they showed it again in a lopsided win over Columbia. Harper had 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 assists to record the first triple-double for his program in over four decades.



Needless to say, this was his best performance of the season yet, which is a lot to say. However, instead of taking all the credit, he shouted out to Bailey and his teammates for the win.



<h2>Dylan Harper shouts out teammates after triple-double</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Obviously, it’s a great accomplishment, but I mean I couldn’t have done any of that without my teammates,” Harper said. “I mean, guys like Jamichael Davis, Ace Bailey, the rest of the team just really put me in great positions. They got open for me to find them and for them to score.”</blockquote>



<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_20250102_BUS_304070_Ace-Bailey-1-1024x576_2bf8ee58.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 celebrates his slam dunk on the Alabama Crimson Tide.</figcaption></figure>



This was the first triple-double since 1983, when Roy Hinson recorded one with 24 points, ten rebounds, and ten blocks. Hopefully, it won’t be long before we see another one.


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Harper recorded the triple-double after grabbing his tenth board and finding Bailey for his tenth assist of the game, and both of them will most likely get some of them in the NBA one day.

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper has a big message for Ace Bailey

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper has a big message for Ace Bailey - Bolavip US

With all due respect, when we talk about the marquee programs in<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball </a>history, Rutgers’ name doesn’t always pop up. This year, however, they’re must-watch television.



That’s because of their incredibly talented duo of Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, both of whom are expected to be top-three picks in the upcoming edition of the NBA Draft.



They both dominated against Columbia, leading the team to a 91-64 victory in a packed arena. Moreover, with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 dimes, Harper made history by recording the first triple-double in almost 42 years for his program. 



<h2>Rutgers coach praises Dylan Harper after historic milestone</h2>



The Scarlet Knights hadn’t had a player record a triple-double since former NBA player Roy Hinson did so in 1983. With that in mind, his coach, Steve Pikiell, shared some kind words for his young star: 



<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_20241231_BUS_303999_Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576_582ecefb.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 looks on against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish </figcaption></figure>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Roy Hinson, not only a great player here and in the NBA, but a great guy, too,” Pikiell said. “To be mentioned with him, for Dylan, that’s a special thing. I love the fact that he had seven rebounds in the first half. We need him to do those things. And he passed the heck out of the ball.”</blockquote>


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Harper continues to make a case as a potential No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft, even ahead of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a>. With these kinds of performances, it will be hard to argue with that statement.

NCAAB News: Projected top pick Dylan Harper makes Rutgers history

NCAAB News: Projected top pick Dylan Harper makes Rutgers history - Bolavip US

Dylan Harper isn’t going to stay at Rutgers for much longer. The talented guard has turned a lot of heads during his first — and likely only — season in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball.</a>



Some believe he has a strong case to take down Duke star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a> and his own teammate, Ace Bailey, to become the first-overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.



However, it’s not just his play on the court that has been impressive. Recently, the son of NBA champion Ron Harper broke the internet by giving his teammates some sick customized jackets, making the most of his partnership with the Rutgers NIL Store.



<h2>Dylan Harper hooks up teammates with epic bomber jacket</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“For the holidays, Dylan Harper gifted his teammates their own NIL bomber jackets! The embroidered NIL bombers are now available for every men’s and women’s basketball player at the Rutgers NIL Store. Preorder window closes Jan. 7,” the store wrote in a post.</blockquote>



<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_20241231_BUS_303388_Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576_b150b549.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Dylan Harper" class="wp-image-279322" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Steve Pikiell of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights speaks with Dylan Harper #2 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the second half of their game against the St. John’s Red Storm at Jersey Mike’s Arena on October 17, 2024 in Piscataway, New Jersey.</figcaption></figure>



Harper’s ties to the program run deep, as his older brother, Ron Harper Jr, was also a big star. Now, he’ll look to follow his old man’s steps and also win the ultimate glory with the pros.


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He’s averaging well over 23 points per game, and with his meteoric rise as a young star, it won’t be long before those jackets go flying off the shells at campus.

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper breaks internet with epic NIL-related Christmas gift

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper breaks internet with epic NIL-related Christmas gift - Bolavip US

The Rutgers Scarlett Knights have put on a show more often than not this season. They’ve had all eyes set on them in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> scene, thanks to Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey.



Harper, the son of 15-year NBA veteran and former NBA champion Ron Harper, has made big strides in his first — and most likely only – -season in college basketball.



That’s why, now that he’s looking back on the past couple of months and the wild ride he’s been through on his way to the top, he made sure to thank God and his fans during Christmas.



<h2>Dylan Harper shares emotional Christmas message</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Merry Christmas to everyone mannn, beyond blessed to be in the position im in right now but nun of of that would of happen if it wasnt for the man above. Be greatful for everyone and everything you have and tell everyone around you that you love them life to short not too fr. Waking up everyday is a blessing,” he said in a post shared by NCAA Noobia on X.</blockquote>



<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_20241226_BUS_301026_Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576_97d91d63.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Dylan Harper" class="wp-image-279322" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Steve Pikiell of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights speaks with Dylan Harper #2 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the second half of their game against the St. John’s Red Storm at Jersey Mike’s Arena on October 17, 2024 in Piscataway, New Jersey.</figcaption></figure>



Harper has some big shoes to fill in the NBA, as his father can brag about winning five NBA championships. He has yet to make it to the league, but with his averages of 23.3 points, 4.2 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, it’s just a matter of time.


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He entered the season as the projected No. 3 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, but given the way he’s played, some believe he has a strong chance to take down Duke star Cooper Flagg as the first guy off the board.

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper pens heartfelt message to Rutgers fans

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper pens heartfelt message to Rutgers fans - Bolavip US

For years, NBA scouts have raved about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a>. He has the physical tools to become a star at the next level, and his offensive talent and rim protection are mesmerizing.



Flagg is the most talked-about player in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>, and that’s not likely to change any time soon. If anything, the hype will get bigger as the tournament approaches.



Nevertheless, even despite his age, Dylan Harper could eventually take his spot atop the big boards. At least, that’s what NCAA expert Rob Dauster pointed out in DTF.



<h2>Dylan Harper could challenge Cooper Flagg in the NBA Draft</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I can’t get past that Dylan Harper’s kind of young for his age, right? He’s born in March of 2006, so he will turn 19 during the NCAA tournament, or actually more likely during the Big 10 tournament. He turns 19 in March,” Dauster said. “Cooper Flagg is not even 18 years old, yet he will turn 18 years old four days from today, Dec. 21. It’s the age thing. The 17 to 21 is when you do the most development as a basketball player. And I think that he is just scratching the surface of what he can be.” </blockquote>



<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_20241218_BUS_295983_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_6734b93e.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 and Jordan Derkack #0 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights react during the first half of their game against the Wagner Seahawks at Jersey Mike’s Arena on November 6, 2024 in Piscataway, New Jersey.</figcaption></figure>



Even in spite of his age, and even though there are several other enticing players who look like potential stars in this stacked draft class, Dauters doesn’t see anybody else on Flagg’s or Harper’s level:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I understand why people are enamored with Ace Bailey and, like, VJ Edgecombe and has been fun, and Liam McNeeley has been awesome. And there’s, like, a whole bunch of really good freshmen here, but like, I think it’s those two,” he concluded.</blockquote>


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Of course, drafting isn’t an exact science, and anything can fail. But for the time being, Harper and Flagg look as much as a certain thing as there can be in this league.

NCAAB News: Analyst reveals the only player who could challenge Cooper Flagg as No. 1 pick

NCAAB News: Analyst reveals the only player who could challenge Cooper Flagg as No. 1 pick - Bolavip US

Some players are just meant to do great things. Whether it’s in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> or in the NBA, the Harper family has had their fair share of great moments on the basketball court.



Years ago, Ron Harper Jr. once hit a huge half-court shot to upset the then-No. 1 Purdue with a 70-68 win for Rutgers. Now, his younger brother, Dylan, also got a taste of glory by knocking down a buzzer-beating three to lift his team past Seton Hall.



Needless to say, this was the icing on the cake of an already impressive freshman season for Harper, a projected top-three pick in the NBA Draft. However, he would still take his big brother’s shot.



<h2>Dylan Harper says he preferred his brother’s butter-beater </h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I think my brother’s shot was one of the best in college basketball,” Harper said. “He beat the number one team in the country and had 30 points, 10 rebounds, and hit a half-court shot, so all credit to him. I think his shot was better, but mine was more meaningful in regards to the game and the type of environment we were in.”</blockquote>



<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_20241216_BUS_293973_Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576_e68fe483.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Dylan Harper" class="wp-image-279322" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Dylan-Harper-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Steve Pikiell of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights speaks with Dylan Harper #2 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the second half of their game against the St. John’s Red Storm at Jersey Mike’s Arena on October 17, 2024 in Piscataway, New Jersey.</figcaption></figure>



Harper then dug a little deeper into his mindset before the game-winning shot. He was trying to get the best shot possible, and knowing that he had taken that same shot countless times in practice, he felt okay pulling up:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I don’t know what was going through my head, I was just trying to win,” Harper continued. “The main thing on my mind was the Exhibition Game against St. John’s. I turned the ball over for that game and definitely did not want to do that again. I wanted to get the win and that is what we did. My thought process was to get the best shot possible. It was the only spot on the court open so I got there and shot the ball. I worked on this a lot, constant reps in practice, so I was very confident in this shot.”</blockquote>


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Harper, Ace Bailey, and the Scarlet Knights will look to keep the momentum going next season, but they will have to do a much better job from the line after going just 17-for-53 in their past two games.

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper makes bold admission about his buzzer-beater vs. Seton Hall

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper makes bold admission about his buzzer-beater vs. Seton Hall - Bolavip US

Long before the start of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> season, most fans and experts agreed that Duke forward Cooper Flagg was the undisputed best prospect in the entire scene. But Rutgers guard Dylan Harper, the son of NBA legend Ron Harper, has made big strides for him this season.



We’ve seen how quickly things can change in this industry. In spite of Flagg’s outstanding performances, Harper has emerged as a new suitor in the potential first-overall pick in the NBA Draft.



With that in mind, NBA Draft expert Arya Chawla shared the three biggest questions Harper needs to answer to get the nod: How elite is he at getting himself downhill, how convincing is he as a non-rim scorer, and how advanced he is as a passer.



<h2>NBA Draft expert raises questions about Dylan Harper</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“While he’s a potent slasher, Harper isn’t quite as proficient at getting himself downhill off-the-dribble,” he said. “With a handle and burst that fall short of elite, Harper must prove to scouts that he can become a high-volume downhill advantage creator in the NBA, rather than being limited to a spot creator.”</blockquote>



<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_20241210_BUS_289798_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_255dc2f2.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 celebrates defeating Notre Dame Fighting Irish 85-84 in overtime of their game during the Players Era Festival basketball tournament at MGM Grand Garden Arena on November 26, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.</figcaption></figure>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Harper’s most worrisome statistical gap pertains to his shot-making struggles given he has converted only 23.5% of his non-rim, two-point attempts and just 31.0% of his tries from beyond the arc. In the modern NBA, star ball-handlers nearly always have to be threatening scorers from at least one level beyond the rim, so Harper must make meaningful strides in this regard,” added Chawla.“This question is an important one for nearly every ball-handling guard, but especially to Harper. With other questions surrounding his scoring potential, the Rutgers guard can bolster his appeal as a creator through strong playmaking skills in both the two-man game and out of drives,” he concluded.</blockquote>


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Fortunately, there’s still more than enough time for him to prove to the doubters that he’s as good as advertised — if not more. It’s a long shot, but he can still be the first guy off the board come NBA Draft night.

NCAAB News: Expert reveals 3 questions Rutgers star Dylan Harper must answer

NCAAB News: Expert reveals 3 questions Rutgers star Dylan Harper must answer - Bolavip US

We’re still months away from the 2025 NBA Draft, but with a month of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>season in the books, the picture is starting to shape. Of course, Duke star Cooper Flagg still looks like the first-overall pick, but it all can change.



Notably, Rutgers freshman PG Dylan Harper is making big strides. He’s averaging almost 24 points and 4.5 assists per game, climbing the ladder as a potential challenger for the top spot.



With that in mind, former NBA champion Ron Harper — Dylan’s father — made it loud and clear that he doesn’t want his son to play for the Utah Jazz, who currently has one of the worst records in the NBA.



<h2>Ron Harper doesn’t want his son in Utah</h2>



Harper claimed that “a trade would happen” if his son were to land in Utah. He reportedly turned down a trade to the Jazz when he was a player as well. Shortly after, after a social media frenzy, the former champion backpedaled and claimed that he was just joking:



<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_20241204_BUS_285861_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_f8d00974.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 celebrates defeating Notre Dame Fighting Irish 85-84 in overtime of their game during the Players Era Festival basketball tournament at MGM Grand Garden Arena on November 26, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.</figcaption></figure>



“Stop believe (sic) what I said about my son playing in Utah Jazz. if me and a friend have a tweet about what team want him it’s all about fun…. I don’t control my son or a NBA team draft board… lol I see pictures of a few teams that I wouldn’t want him on but it’s not my career,” Harper tweeted. 



<h2>Harper is climbing the big boards</h2>



Harper is currently penciled in as the No. 3 pick in the NBA Draft, but ESPN expert Jonathan Givony believes that he could be a serious challenger to end the season as the first one off the board:



“Dylan Harper has been the best freshman in college basketball one month into the season,” Givony wrote on X. “Making a strong case to challenge Cooper Flagg as a No. 1 pick candidate.”


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It’s still early, but he does come from an NBA lineage. And with the way he’s playing and Flagg’s recent struggles with Duke, he could give him a run for his money.

NCAAB News: NBA legend threatens Utah Jazz about drafting Rutgers star

NCAAB News: NBA legend threatens Utah Jazz about drafting Rutgers star - Bolavip US

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

Dylan Harper - Page 3