Spurs Land Dynamic Scorer Dylan Harper with No. 2 Pick in 2025 NBA Draft
The San Antonio Spurs made a major addition to their young core Wednesday night, selecting Rutgers guard Dylan Harper with the second overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. The 6’6″ combo guard becomes the highest-drafted player in Rutgers history, following Duke phenom Cooper Flagg who went first to Dallas.
College Standout
Harper made an immediate impact in his lone collegiate season, leading the Scarlet Knights in:
- Scoring (19.4 PPG)
- Assists (4.0 APG)
- Steals (1.6 SPG)
The five-star recruit showcased his all-around game with a triple-double against Columbia (16 pts/12 ast/11 reb) and a season-high 34 points in an overtime win over Washington. His backcourt mate Ace Bailey, drafted fifth by Utah, formed one of college basketball’s most exciting tandems.
Elite Pedigree
Harper arrived at Rutgers with championship pedigree:
- 2024 McDonald’s All-American Game MVP
- Jordan Brand Classic MVP
- One of only five five-star recruits in program history
His 33.3% three-point shooting suggests room for growth, but his ability to create offense (4.6 FTA/game) projects well to the NBA level.
Spurs’ New Era
The selection marks a pivotal moment for San Antonio’s rebuild:
✔️ Joins Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama
✔️ Forms young core with Stephon Castle (2024 lottery pick)
✔️ First draft without Popovich since 1996
New head coach Mitch Johnson gains a versatile perimeter scorer to complement Wembanyama’s interior dominance. Harper’s defensive activity (team-high steals) fits the Spurs’ traditional identity.
Scouting Report
| Strengths | Development Areas |
|---|---|
| Elite scoring instincts | Consistency from deep |
| NBA-ready frame (6’6″, 210 lbs) | Decision-making (2.8 TO/game) |
| Clutch performer (5 OT games) | Off-ball defense |
“Harper’s mid-range game is already pro-ready,” said ESPN analyst Jay Bilas. “If he develops into a 37% three-point shooter, San Antonio got themselves a future All-Star.”
The Spurs hope Harper can help return the franchise to playoff contention after a 34-48 season. With training camp three months away, all eyes will be on how quickly the rookie can adapt to the NBA game alongside the 7’4″ Wembanyama.