The 2025 NBA Draft class features an unprecedented dynamic as Rutgers teammates Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey navigate the pre-draft process together. Both projected as top-three picks, their journey from college stars to potential NBA lottery selections has captivated scouts and fans alike.
Speaking with The Deep 3 at the NBA Draft Combine, Harper offered rare insight into their competitive dynamic. The Rutgers teammates represent something unique in modern basketball: elite prospects whose friendship transcends typical draft rivalries and positioning battles.
Rutgers Teammates Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey Turned Draft Rivals
When asked about having a teammate going through the same draft process, Harper was honest about their relationship.
“I mean we both competitive, but I think it’s all support” Harper told The Deep 3. “I mean, we like one big family, my family, his family. We all close together.”
The point guard emphasized how their shared experience provides comfort during an otherwise stressful period.
“You know, I come places like here, I know I’m going to have someone I’m going to be with the whole time,” he said. “So it’s just great to have him by my side and just I’m happy to see where me and him going to go.”
Competition Breeds Excellence in Practice Battles
Their competitive nature showed throughout their college season as practice battles intensified their games. Harper revealed the frequency of their one on one matchups.
“I mean beginning of the season we play one on one all the time,” Harper said. “I mean that just comes from I think us want to get better.”
When pressed about who typically wins their individual battles, Harper confidently responded “Me. Naturally.” However, he acknowledged Bailey’s advantages.
“It’s like, I mean I’m going to say me but he gets me sometimes,” Harper said. “I mean he’s 6’10”, can shoot over. It’s pretty hard to guard.”
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Their stellar freshman campaigns at Rutgers showcased why both players are considered elite prospects. Harper averaged 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game while shooting 48.4% from the field. His playmaking ability and basketball intelligence earned him Big Ten All-Freshman Team honors.
Bailey posted impressive numbers with 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game in 33.4 minutes. The versatile forward led all freshmen nationally in scoring while earning Third Team All-Big Ten recognition alongside his Big Ten All-Freshman selection.
The duo’s success stems from their understanding of each other’s strengths and complementary skill sets. While Harper operates as the primary playmaker with elite court vision, Bailey provides versatility as a scoring threat from multiple positions.
Their chemistry developed through countless practice battles and shared goals of reaching the NBA’s highest level.
Their journey represents a rare occurrence in modern basketball, where two potential top-three picks from the same program maintain genuine friendship while competing for similar draft positions and future NBA success.
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