Dylan Harper chooses Rutgers, values family and independence

Dylan Harper, a top basketball recruit, chose to attend Rutgers University instead of traditional powerhouses like Duke. In a recent interview, he discussed his decision, family influences, and his performance this season. Harper’s father, Ron Harper, is a former NBA champion who played alongside legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. His mother, Maria, also played college basketball and coached him throughout his youth. Harper feels grateful for the opportunities at Rutgers. He appreciates the support from his coaches and believes choosing a less traditional path helps him make a name for himself. He acknowledges the challenges of his freshman year but is proud of his growth. With the highest usage rate among freshmen, Harper has been instrumental in his team’s performance. Coach Steve Pikiell placed faith in him to lead the team, which helped him improve rapidly. Harper states that his shooting has developed significantly, emphasizing the importance of practice and preparation. Harper also discussed misconceptions about his game, including doubts about his athleticism. He expressed confidence in his abilities and pointed out that people often overlook his skills based on preconceived notions. He learns valuable lessons from his brother Ron Jr., who plays for the Detroit Pistons, mainly about hard work and resilience. In the interview, Harper praised teammate Ace Bailey as an incredible player and hardworking individual, despite mixed opinions about Bailey’s game. He admires Bailey's talent and believes he brings more to the team than just scoring. Looking to the future, Harper is focused on finishing strong at Rutgers and remains open to different roles in the NBA. He is currently preparing for the next steps in his career while enjoying a sponsorship with Kinder Bueno, a brand he appreciates. Harper emphasizes the importance of dedication and hard work in reaching his goals.