Dylan Harper has quickly become a household name in college basketball circles and now, as the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, all eyes are on this Rutgers sensation. With his impressive blend of scoring, playmaking, and leadership, Harper is on a path that could see him as one of the highest-drafted players in Rutgers history. In this article, we’ll explore Harper’s game, what sets him apart as an NBA prospect, and why his draft stock is soaring.

Dylan Harper’s Impact at Rutgers

From the start of his freshman season, Dylan Harper has captivated fans and scouts with his strong performances. Standing 6-foot-4 and boasting a broad wingspan, Harper combines physicality with skill. He averaged impressive numbers while helping to revitalize Rutgers basketball, joining forces with fellow star Ace Bailey to create one of the program’s most dynamic duos in decades.

Harper’s versatility is unmatched among guards in the draft class. He excels at driving to the basket, creating shots off the dribble, and defending multiple positions. It’s not just his stats that intrigue NBA teams—it’s his feel for the game and ability to perform in key moments.

NBA Draft Projections and Expectations

Current mock drafts have consistently placed Dylan Harper among the top two picks, with several experts predicting he will go No. 2 overall to the San Antonio Spurs. Harper’s mix of size, basketball IQ, and NBA bloodlines (his father is former NBA standout Ron Harper) gives him a high floor and significant upside.

For an in-depth look at where scouts project Harper will land, check out the 2025 NBA Mock Draft Roundup highlighting Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey. Many analysts, including CBS Sports, ESPN, Sporting News, and The Ringer, agree that Harper is the best guard available and could reshape a franchise’s future.

Additionally, a comprehensive overview by NBC Sports delves into the potential superstar impact Harper could bring to his new team. Read the full analysis in NBC Sports' 2025 NBA Mock Draft: Dylan Harper goes to Spurs.

Harper’s Strengths and the Path Forward

What truly sets Dylan Harper apart is his ability to influence the game on both ends. He is a powerful scorer at the rim and an effective playmaker, which makes him adaptable at the next level. While his shooting remains a swing skill according to scouts, Harper’s dedication and consistent improvement suggest he can develop into a reliable outside threat.

His partnership with Ace Bailey at Rutgers not only brought excitement to college basketball fans but also created a rare moment for the Scarlet Knights. If both are selected early, it would mark the first time since 1985 that two Rutgers players were chosen in the same draft. For more on this historic moment and Bailey’s own draft journey, see Rutgers Star Ace Bailey’s Mock Draft Movement.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Awaits Dylan Harper

Dylan Harper’s journey from Rutgers standout to NBA lottery pick is drawing national attention. As the draft nears, expectations are sky-high. Scouts are eager to see how his well-rounded game translates to the professional level. If his current trajectory holds, Harper could quickly become a cornerstone player for whichever NBA franchise selects him. Basketball fans should keep a close watch on this dynamic guard as he continues to rewrite Rutgers and NBA draft history.