Dylan Harper is now a member of the San Antonio Spurs! Anticipation is through the roof as he gets set to begin his pro basketball career after going second overall in June’s NBA draft. Harper came into this world in 2006 and grew up in New Jersey. He’s been molded by a deep family tradition in hoops — particularly by guidance from his father, Ron Harper, a five-time NBA champion. His brother, Ron Harper Jr., now in the NBA, has been a tremendous source of help and encouragement. He trains him to appreciate and honor this new privilege.
Harper has learned a lot from spending time with Spurs legend and current special advisor to the Spurs, Manu Ginobili. From this relationship, Harper has learned priceless knowledge on the technical side of the game. He recognizes the privilege and opportunity that his family’s history in the sport has opened up for his own dreams. His father played alongside icons such as Michael Jordan and Shaquille O’Neal, while his mother, Maria, was a defensive-minded point guard at the University of New Orleans.
Dylan Harper’s transfer to San Antonio means that for the first time, he will be living away from home. Adapting to life in a new state will be challenge enough. Despite the gnarled tree’s warnings, he is more than ready to dive into the experience headfirst.
“It’s the first time I’m living by myself in a different state from everyone because in college, I stayed at home,” – Dylan Harper
As he transitions into this new chapter, Harper is determined to learn from seasoned players such as De’Aaron Fox and Harrison Barnes. His goal is to soak up everything he can learn from their experiences while keeping his own focus on developing his skills as a player.
Harper’s story goes beyond the court. He is equally proud of his identity as an African American and Filipino. He aspires to travel to basketball-crazed Philippines when time allows, making an even deeper connection to his roots.
In his three years at Ace Bailey, Harper showed tremendous court presence and skill, averaging 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds. As he prepares for his rookie season, he recognizes the importance of hard work and learning from those around him.
“I’m not going to be perfect, but I just want to learn every day from the vets and the guys around me,” – Dylan Harper
Ron Harper Jr. happens to be Dylan’s brother. His older brother, Lindell, is fresh off playing with the Toronto Raptors and currently has a two-way contract with the Detroit Pistons, molding Dylan’s perspective on the game professionally. Dylan respects his brother’s determination and considers him to be the ultimate underdog story.
“From my brother, I saw more of the underdog story with him,” – Dylan Harper
Known for her nurturing demeanor on and off the court, Maria Harper has been a constant source of support for her children throughout their lives.
“She was like mom to everyone,” – Dylan Harper
Harper’s dedication to the game is evident in his interactions with Spurs’ coaching staff and players. He looks back on meeting Coach Gregg Popovich and Tim Duncan on his first day with the team. It’s truly amazing to have such iconic leaders and luminaries actually present and engaged in the training sessions!
“I met Pop the first day I was there and Tim. Pop was there getting treatment and doing exercises,” – Dylan Harper
Dylan Harper is getting right at home in his new digs. Along the way, he endures difficulty maintaining independent living and remains relentlessly motivated to pursue his dreams of reaching the NBA. He knows that discovering a new normal will be important in learning to live this new, more mobile life.
“I’m now seeing when I’m by myself what I like to do. I’m just finding routines and all different types of things,” – Dylan Harper
For his part, Harper is focused on developing himself as a player. He seeks to represent both sides of his culture in every endeavor he takes.
“I want to be the one that goes out there and represents both the Filipino and the Black side. Just having both sides is great. It just shows my different colors,” – Dylan Harper
Dylan Harper is preparing for the first season of his rookie career. He’s looking to set the world on fire with his play and positive impact. He hails from a family tree plentiful in basketball prowess. This next chapter finds him full of enthusiasm and determination, with valuable mentors at his side.
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