Dylan Harper just signed with the San Antonio Spurs after being drafted second overall in the 2026 NBA Draft. He’s already written himself into NBA history by being the first player to don the number 2 since Kawhi Leonard. His arrival has created plenty of buzz around Spurs fandom, too. They can’t wait to see the team end its six-year playoff drought.
The 19-year-old prospect has his eyes set on making an immediate impact on the court right away. Secondly, is to rouse a championship-starved fanbase, who for years have awaited the return to postseason glory. That’s not something you’ll find at any other organization. Growing up, this is one of the teams you dreamed to play for since you were a kid,” Harper said. After watching their dynasty, you just kind of get that feeling of wanting to build on those banners and want to add a few more to it.
Harper’s debut will come on July 5th at the California Summer League in San Francisco. He will take the court along with fellow rookie Carter Bryant to duel the Miami Heat in Wright’s first NBA action. Since their sophomore year of high school, the two have developed an unbreakable bond. Now they’re hungry to leave their imprint together in the league.
As he moves into the professional game this season, Harper remains focused on winning each contest that team steps on the field for, above all else. His ambition coincides with the Spurs’ hope for a bounce back season. He expressed confidence in his ability to help the franchise achieve NBA history, drawing on the extensive knowledge available from Spurs legends Tim Duncan, Gregg Popovich, and Manu Ginobili, whom he often encounters during workouts. “I’m just trying to work out and I just happen to run into Tim Duncan and Gregg Popovich and Manu Ginobili,” he said.
And even with all the pressure that accompanies being a top-four pick in the draft, Harper has his feet planted firmly on the ground. I’m not under any pressure to win ROY or anything like that, but I certainly want to make sure that I continue with my success,” he said. This approach hasn’t gone unnoticed by Spurs General Manager Brian Wright, who spoke highly of the humility and work ethic that Harper brings to the table.
Historically, the Spurs have been successful in drafting standout talents, having selected the last two NBA Rookie of the Year winners: Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. With Harper now on the roster, there is renewed hope that he can follow in their footsteps and contribute significantly to the team’s future success.
Harper as a child grew up watching future Spurs legends such as Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, and David Robinson. This experience ignited his profound reverence for the franchise’s storied legacy. His commitment to upholding that legacy is evident in his statement regarding his confidence stemming from hard work: “I think my confidence and all that comes from all the work I’ve put in.”
Leave a Reply