The Spurs have chosen Rutgers guard Dylan Harper with the second decide of the 2025 NBA Draft.
The decide was anticipated, as Harper is broadly thought-about the second-best prospect on this yr’s class, solely trailing Cooper Flagg, whom Dallas chosen No. 1 general.
Whereas the Scarlet Knights had a disappointing season in 2024/25, going simply 15-17, Harper was extremely productive on a person degree, averaging 19.4 factors, 4.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.4 steals in 29 video games (32.6 minutes per contest). He posted a taking pictures slash line of .484/.333/.750.
There had been some hypothesis that San Antonio would possibly think about shifting the No. 2 decide, maybe in pursuit of celebrity Giannis Antetokounmpo. However there was no indication up to now that the Bucks ahead will request a commerce, and even when he does, Harper may nonetheless be a lovely centerpiece to a possible supply sooner or later.
Another excuse rival groups have been interested in what the Spurs would do is that Harper will not be a really perfect slot in a backcourt that includes two different proficient scorers with inconsistent exterior pictures: Rookie of the Yr Stephon Castle and De’Aaron Fox.
Drafting Harper doesn’t essentially put these inquiries to relaxation, but it surely does sign the Spurs are excessive sufficient on the 19-year-old that they prioritized his expertise over his match, and are ready to see how he seems to be on the roster alongside Citadel, Fox, and rising star Victor Wembanyama.
Just like the division-rival Mavericks, who jumped from No. 11 to No. 1, the Spurs additionally moved up a number of locations within the 2025 draft lottery, going from No. 8 to No. 2.
Harper is the son of former NBA guard Ron Harper, who received 5 championships throughout his 15 years within the league, and the youthful brother of ahead Ron Harper Jr., who’s at the moment on a two-way contract with Detroit.
