Projected as a top-three selection in the 2025 NBA Draft, Rutgers guard Dylan Harper has impressed evaluators with both his physical tools and high-level production. Dylan, son of five-time NBA champ Ron Harper, posted 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists as a freshman. Widely viewed as the No. 2 prospect in the class, Harper recently shared which NBA stars he models his game after. The comparisons reflect Harper’s versatile offensive skill set and strong frame.
Top NBA Prospect Dylan Harper Reveals Player Comparisons
Dylan Harper, widely considered a top-three selection in the 2025 NBA Draft, has drawn attention not just for his production, but for how he evaluates his game and peers. The 6-foot-4.5 Rutgers guard, son of five-time NBA champion Ron Harper, averaged roughly 19.5 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.0 assists as a freshman, standing out on a team that struggled overall.
Harper cited three NBA stars when asked which players he sees in his own game.
Dylan Harper on Ace Bailey: “From a scoring standpoint, he’s 6-10, he sees over everyone. I probably haven’t seen a scorer better than him. A young T-Mac (Tracy McGrady).”
Dylan Harper on his player comparisons: “Probably James Harden, Cade Cunningham, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.” pic.twitter.com/QjACnPHvYD
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) May 14, 2025
“Probably James Harden, Cade Cunningham, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander,” he said.
The comparisons reflect his blend of size, creativity and control, especially in pick-and-roll play. Harper finished nearly 68% of his shots at the rim, a figure that highlights his ability to score through contact — a trait common among elite guards.
He also averaged about four assists per game, posting a 27% assist rate while showcasing advanced vision, including wrap passes and skip reads in tight spaces.
Harper was equally enthusiastic when discussing Rutgers teammate Ace Bailey.
“From a scoring standpoint, he’s 6-10, he sees over everyone. I probably haven’t seen a scorer better than him. A young T-Mac (Tracy McGrady). He gonna get a bucket, like, he gonna go get to his spots. He’s gonna force his one to the game.”
He praised Bailey’s overall game and underrated basketball IQ, calling him a “pro” who can score, facilitate and defend. Bailey, who measures 6-7.5 with a 7-0.5 wingspan, fits the mold of a modern wing, capable of getting to his spots and dictating tempo, much like McGrady in his prime.
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Harper’s polished game, physical profile and leadership as a freshman make him a strong candidate for the San Antonio Spurs, who hold the No. 2 pick and are expected to target a dynamic playmaker to pair with Victor Wembanyama.
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