If there is one New Jersey player you should look for in the NBA, it’s Dylan Harper.
Dylan Harper was born in Franklin Lakes, NJ, on March 2, 2006. He went and played his high school ball at Don Bosco Preparatory High School in Ramsey, NJ. During his time in high school, he became one of the most polished guards in the country. He was named the Boys Basketball Player of the Year by NJ.com as a junior. Then Harper led Don Bosco to an NJSIAA Non-Public A State Championship a year later as a senior.
Harper decided to stay home for his collegiate career and played for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights under Steve Pikiell. This made Harper the highest-rated recruit in program history. After his impressive freshman season, Harper was drafted second overall by the San Antonio Spurs. Now at 20 years old, he is doing something most rookies can’t, which is making a genuine impact on a prominent playoff team.
Harper became the youngest player in league history to score 25 or more points in a playoff game. Harper erupted for a career high against the Portland Trail Blazers in Round 1, dropping 27 points on 9-of-12 shooting, four threes, 10 rebounds, with three assists, a block, and a steal. Harper did this coming off the bench. He stepped up big time after superstar Victor Wembanyama came down with a concussion.
Now the Spurs face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference semifinals. Harper has continued to play a pivotal role in the postseason in game 1, contributing 18 points as the Spurs and Timberwolves are set for a tight and very exciting series.
