Dylan Harper’s first NBA All-Star weekend was made even more special as the Fil-Am rookie played against his brother, with their father cheering from the sidelines during the Rising Stars Game.
It didn’t take long for rookie Dylan Harper Jr. to get a taste of NBA All-Star weekend.
The Fil-Am guard proudly represented the San Antonio Spurs in the midseason spectacle, and it was a true family affair in the City of Angels.
He faced off against his older brother Ron Jr. in the Rising Stars Game, while their father and three-time NBA champion Ron Harper watched from the stands.
Dylan suited up for Team Melo, coached by NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, while Ron Jr. played for Team Austin, a squad of G League players guided by former NBA guard Austin Rivers.
In a memorable ending, it was Dylan who drained the game-winner with a fallaway jumper — over his older brother — sealing a 40-34 victory.
On the sidelines, their father shared a wholesome moment with Anthony, dabbing him up in celebration.
Although Team Melo later fell to Team Vince in the championship round, Dylan savored the experience of his first All-Star weekend.
"The first All-Star weekend that I’m participating in, I mean I wouldn't want to have it any other way. Being here and in the spotlight is probably a great feeling," he said.
Staying humble
The 19-year-old is enjoying a productive rookie season with the Spurs, averaging 10.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists off the bench.
San Antonio is currently at second place in the West behind a 38-16 record, establishing themselves as legitimate championship contenders behind French phenom Victor Wembanyama, superstar De’Aaron Fox, and Stephon Castle.
Despite the team’s success, Harper keeps his feet on the ground.
"Coming into the season, winning is the biggest thing on my mind. Just to see us do that, we have a lot more room to grow," he said.
"From the standpoint of expectations — whatever team I was on — we should be talking about championships and how we get better."
After the All-Star break, the Spurs will return to action Friday, February 20 (Philippine time) against the Phoenix Suns.
Pao Ambat earned his journalism degree from Cavite State University in 2022.
Passionate about sports from a young age, he primarily covers the NBA for One Sports, while also assisting in reporting on the PVL, PBA, UAAP, and other leagues.