Dylan Harper, a rising star in the basketball world and Rutgers Basketball commit, has recently partnered with Roc Nation Sports for NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) representation. Roc Nation Sports operates under the umbrella of Roc Nation, an entertainment company established by Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter in 2013.
This strategic move marks a significant milestone in his career, coming at a time when the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) passed NIL legislation in July 2021, allowing athletes like Harper to capitalize on their personal brand through endorsements and sponsorships while maintaining their eligibility.
The 18-year-old Filipino-American, brother to esteemed Rutgers basketball standout Ron Harper Jr., has long been touted as one of the most promising talents in the country. Standing at 6-foot-6 and 180 pounds, Harper is a versatile combo guard whose skills have caught the attention of basketball enthusiasts and recruiters alike.
Rutgers Head Coach, Coach Pikiell, expressed his enthusiasm in welcoming Harper to the Rutgers basketball family, recognizing his athletic prowess and exceptional character. Harper's work ethic and love for the game are fortified by the invaluable guidance of his family.
Maria, his mother, hails from Bataan, Philippines, where she honed her skills on the basketball court before excelling at the University of New Orleans. Meanwhile, his father, Ron Harper Sr., a distinguished five-time NBA champion, instilled the values and mindset needed to leave an enduring legacy in basketball. Additionally, Harper's maternal grandfather represented the Philippines in jai alai at the 1968 Summer Olympics.
Harper's high school tenure at Don Bosco Prep was remarkable. His exceptional talent gleamed during the 2022-2023 season, as he was named Most Valuable Player at the renowned John Wall Holiday Invitational and commenced the new year with a dazzling 36-point display on Showtime TV. The season also saw a remarkable 38-point performance against Bergen Catholic in the North Non-Public A semifinals, capping off his junior year with an impressive season average of 23 points.
Harper was also named the 2023-2024 MaxPreps National Basketball Player of the Year, solidifying his place among the elite in high school basketball. Harper's achievement marks a significant milestone for Don Bosco Prep, as he becomes the second player from the Garden State to win high school basketball's highest honor.
Throughout the 2023-2024 season, Harper consistently averaged 22.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. Moreover, he played a pivotal role in the state championship game against Paul VI (Haddonfield), contributing 26 points, nine rebounds, and four assists in a convincing 56-29 win.
Harper's prowess extended beyond the confines of high school basketball. He emerged as one of the standout players in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) last year, showcasing his skills by averaging 19.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.9 assists for the New York Renaissance Basketball Association.
Furthermore, Harper represented USA Basketball at the FIBA U-19 World Cup in Hungary, where he contributed significantly by starting two games and averaging 9.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.0 assists. As a result of his exceptional performance, Harper earned a McDonald's All-American nod and a coveted spot on the Naismith National High School Player of the Year Finalist list.
Now, as he prepares to embark on the next chapter of his basketball journey at Rutgers University, Harper remains focused on his ultimate goal: to win a national championship. As Harper's stardom continues to rise, his partnership with Roc Nation Sports for NIL representation is a strategic move that will elevate his brand and expand his reach on and off the court.
℅ Dylan Harper, Roc Nation, and Rutgers Basketball
℅ Dylan Harper, Roc Nation, and Rutgers Basketball
℅ Dylan Harper, Roc Nation, and Rutgers Basketball
