As the 2025 NBA Draft nears, talent evaluators are sharpening their assessments of Rutgers guard Dylan Harper, the top-ranked American prospect behind consensus No. 1 Cooper Flagg.
Harper, a 6-foot-5 freshman, averaged 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists across 29 games while shooting 48.4% from the field and 33.3% from deep. His all-around game and maturity have earned praise from coaches and scouts, who project him as a top-three pick.
David Aldridge of The Athletic compiled feedback from coaches who faced Rutgers this season, highlighting Harper’s readiness and professionalism. One college assistant coach described Harper as “definitely two (after Flagg),” citing his effort, defensive engagement, and coachability.
“He plays the right way. He guards. He tries defensively. He can make tough shots. He can play on or off the ball,” the coach told Aldridge. “That kid’s going to make an All-Star team in the NBA.”
Another college head coach who faced Rutgers said Harper compares favorably to former high lottery picks: “He’s as good as anyone we’ve played against, including Markelle Fultz and Jabari Smith.” However, the coach added Harper wasn’t quite at the level of Cade Cunningham or Anthony Edwards at the same age.
Questions remain about Harper’s positional fit at the next level. One assistant coach noted his ability to drive both ways but questioned whether he projects as a true point guard or combo guard. His left-hand preference, polished pick-and-roll reads, and strong frame offer multiple pathways for development.
An Eastern Conference scout quoted by Aldridge said Harper’s ceiling may not be elite but expects him to carve out a long career. “I don’t think he has a real high ceiling, but I think he’ll play, and play for a long time.”
With Flagg widely expected to go first overall to the Mavericks, Harper is a leading candidate for San Antonio at No. 2. The Spurs previously selected Stephon Castle and paired him with Victor Wembanyama.
The 2025 draft class also features names like VJ Edgecombe, Ace Bailey, and Derik Queen, but Harper’s blend of production, IQ, and pedigree—he is the son of former NBA champion Ron Harper—keeps him firmly in the upper tier.
As draft workouts and interviews begin in the lead-up to June 25, front offices will continue dissecting Harper’s profile to determine just how high he might go.
