In a world where five-star athletes seem to multiply like TikTok trends, Rutgers guard Dylan Harper is giving us something worth actually watching this NCAA season. No stranger to the spotlight, Harper hit the hardwood against St. John’s with a level of skill and flair that had scouts—and let’s face it, the entire Rutgers student body—on the edge of their seats. Not bad for a freshman with as much poise as your average 10-year NBA vet. Sorry, Ace Bailey fans, but the Knight in Scarlet Armor may just be Harper.
Built Like a Power Forward, Moves Like a Guard
Standing at 6’6” and weighing in at 215 pounds, Harper’s build could intimidate most defenders before he even takes his first step. But this is no one-trick pony built solely for driving through lanes. No, Harper brings versatility, driving with both hands (albeit favoring that left), gliding with grace, and scoring with a knack that leaves spectators wondering if he’s made of rubber and superglue. In his exhibition game against St. John’s, Harper reminded everyone why he’s a top pick contender, clocking in 20 points, slick drives, and assists that made the Scarlet Knights faithful practically swoon.
Now, let’s be honest. Harper’s vertical leap isn’t exactly going to make Vince Carter lose sleep, but he’s got touch, strength, and that awkward-yet-effective behind-the-back move that’s like the basketball equivalent of dad jokes: corny but surprisingly effective.
Getting Dirty in the Paint and Living at the Line
When you’re built like Harper, you’re going to get fouled. A lot. Harper’s opponents might want to brush up on their free-throw line etiquette because he’s going to be a regular. Sure, his finishing around the rim could use some refinement—think less Tasmanian Devil and more Kawhi Leonard finesse—but that power? Pure unadulterated dynamite. With his 0.32 free-throw rate from his last EYBL season, he’s already proven he can overpower defenders and rack up those extra points. And when he doesn’t draw the foul? Well, let’s just say there’s always room for a few of those “oh-so-close” shots that we pretend to love.
Off-Balance Shots and the Art of Ill-Advised Bravery
As any budding basketball superstar will tell you, sometimes you just have to take that shot. And Harper? He’s got that lesson down pat, even if the shots don’t always go in. He’s shown he can spin, fade, and hop-step his way into surprisingly successful floaters, and, on a good day, drain them from mid-range with a deadly cool. But then there are those other times, the times when he takes the kind of shots that make you think, “Did he just…?”
But if Harper can improve his consistency from beyond the arc, he’ll give defenders real headaches—and we’re not talking the type you can cure with ibuprofen.
Playmaking Like a Pro: Step Aside, Luka?
Let’s not go overboard—Harper isn’t Luka Doncic. But let’s just say his patience as a ball handler and court vision is borderline poetry. He’s the kind of guy who seems to pause time, waiting for passing lanes to open up, and then effortlessly whips the ball into gaps most players wouldn’t even consider. He may not be a mind reader, but when it comes to spotting an open cutter, he’s pretty darn close.
Even on defense, Harper’s intensity is something to behold. A 6’6” guard with lateral quickness and enough strength to hound anyone at the point of attack? It’s like watching a wolf in a field of gazelles. Quick guards can try their luck, but Harper’s size and positioning mean turnovers, or at the very least, an inbound pass after a bad decision.
The Future NBA Star We Never Knew We Needed
For those looking forward to the 2025 NBA Draft, it’s not all about Ace Bailey or the top mock picks anymore. Harper has shown he can navigate the floor, handle pressure, and make his impact without dominating the ball—an invaluable skill in today’s NBA. Of course, his potential as an elite shot creator and finisher hinges on some skill refinement. But, hey, if anyone’s betting on Harper, the odds are pretty good.
So, Rutgers fans, strap in and grab your popcorn. Dylan Harper is about to make NCAA games must-watch TV, and if he keeps this up, you’ll want to tell your friends, “I saw him before he went pro.”
