Dylan Harper has emerged as one of the San Antonio Spurs’ top prospects this season, and the guard credits his early success on the court to his teammates.
Harper played 43 games with the Spurs, averaging 10.9 points, 3.7 assists and 3.4 rebounds while shooting 46.7% from the field. He ranks fifth among all rookies in assists and is one of 10 first-year players with at least five 20-point performances.
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With his dynamic scoring and defensive potential, the No. 2 overall pick has emerged as a key backup player for head coach Mickey Johnson. He formed a strong rotation with the likes of De’Aaron Fox and Stephen Castle and considered the group dangerous.
“We have great chemistry,” Harper said Friday before the Rising Stars game. “I think my confidence is at an all-time high just because I get them, plus other guys giving me the strength to do what I do when I get into the game. It’s great. Obviously, we all play the same position, but I think we all do different things that make it so special. When you have four ball handlers on the floor, it’s hard to beat.”
Harper entered the season with high expectations as a high-lottery pick out of Rutgers. He seems to fit in with the team on and off the court and benefits from a strong veteran group around him like Fox, Harrison Barnes, Luke Kornet and Devin Vassell.
The 19-year-old has praised teammates throughout the season for their feedback and advice as he first completed an 82-game schedule. He is excited to join an organization that will provide a seamless transition from the college ranks.
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Harper was one of 28 players selected to the Rising Stars Game, along with Castle and Carter Bryant. He will also be attending Saturday’s Shooting Star event with his father and brother and is excited to be part of the celebrations with those closest to him.
“I mean, it definitely helps that everyone’s here, surrounded by familiar faces,” Harper said. “This is my first All-Star Weekend and I wouldn’t want to do it any other way. It feels great to be here and be in the spotlight.”
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Spurs News: Rookie Dylan Harper praises teammates for high level of confidence