San Antonio Spurs rookie Dylan Harper shared candid insights about his rise to the NBA, college experience, and mindset going forward during an appearance on 7PM in Brooklyn, presented by Wave Original.
The No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft discussed how the City of Palms Classic shaped his trajectory as a top prospect. Harper called the tournament his “coming out party,” emphasizing how competing against elite talent showcased that he “belonged.”
Harper averaged 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game in his lone season at Rutgers. He credited his time in the Big Ten for preparing him mentally, noting, “We wasn’t winning a lot of games, but…Rutgers prepared me for what I think I’m about to go through.”
A major moment in Harper’s pre-draft process came during a private workout with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. He said Giannis’s work ethic “switched my brain,” and admired how the Bucks star “might not be going the fastest, but he’s going the hardest.” Harper highlighted Giannis’s quote: “You can’t be perfect, but you can get close to perfect.”
On the podcast, Carmelo Anthony compared Harper’s style to James Harden’s, citing his ability to control pace, create separation, and use his strength as a left-handed guard. “Nobody going to stop you from getting to your spot or getting the shot that you really want,” Anthony said.
Asked about social media criticism, Harper said he uses online scrutiny as motivation. “You got to be doing something right,” he remarked, suggesting that even harsh critiques reflect relevance. He also emphasized that he prefers training without cameras, citing private sessions with his trainer Kenny Miller.
Harper also addressed his approach to NIL partnerships. He explained that authenticity and trust—not just money—drive his decision-making. “It wasn’t about the money, it was about a relationship,” he said, highlighting his deal with Prudential.
When asked to define his strengths, the guard pointed to his versatility. “I could play on the ball…off the ball…guard the best player if you need me to,” Harper said. He added that he thrives with teammates who match his level of talent and commitment.
San Antonio also drafted Arizona forward Carter Bryant at No. 14, signaling a youth movement around their young core.
