Throughout the 2024-25 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2025 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Dylan Harper
Position: Guard
College: Rutgers
Class: Freshman
Height/Weight: 6'6", 215 lbs
Birthdate: March 2, 2006
High School: Don Bosco (NJ)
Player Overview
Dylan Harper is a versatile, high-IQ guard with the size, skill, and poise to excel as a primary or complementary option at the next level. Known for his polished scoring game and elite shot creation, Harper uses his advanced handle and footwork to create separation off the dribble. Around the rim, he finishes efficiently with both hands and showcases body control, strength, and explosiveness, making him a consistent threat in the paint. Harper also thrives in high-pressure moments and is seemingly trusted by teammates to take crucial shots in games. While his three-point shooting and decision-making as a ball handler have room for improvement, his all-around game makes him one of the top prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft.
"Harper is a smart combo guard known for his high basketball IQ and playmaking ability. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, as his father is former NBA player Ron Harper." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Three-Level Scoring Ability: Harper excels at scoring from beyond the arc, mid-range, and at the rim, making him a well-rounded offensive threat.
Elite Shot Creation: Uses advanced handles, footwork, and basketball IQ to generate clean looks against defenders.
Finishing at the Rim: Explosive finisher with the ability to absorb contact and convert with both hands in traffic.
Clutch Performer: Consistently trusted to take critical shots in games, showcasing confidence and composure under pressure.
Size and Versatility: At 6'6", Harper has the physicality to guard multiple positions and contribute in various roles on offense.
Concerns
Three-Point Shooting Consistency: Harper’s perimeter shooting efficiency, particularly against length and athleticism, needs improvement.
Turnover Prone: Often forces drives into traffic and takes contested shots instead of finding open teammates.
Confidence After Misses: Occasionally hesitates or loses focus after missed shots, impacting his offensive rhythm.
Decision-Making: At times, prioritizes scoring over passing, resulting in missed opportunities to involve teammates.
Questions
Can he develop into a primary scoring option at the NBA level, or is he best suited as a key complementary player?
Will Harper improve his turnover rate as a primary ball handler?
Can he enhance his three-point efficiency against more athletic and longer defenders?
Bottom Line
Dylan Harper is a well-rounded guard with the tools to be a significant contributor at the NBA level. His size, scoring versatility, and playmaking ability make him one of the top 2025 NBA Draft prospects. While his three-point shooting and decision-making present areas for improvement, Harper’s basketball IQ and competitive edge indicate he will make a positive impact at the next level. If he can refine his perimeter game and limit turnovers, Harper has the potential to develop into an All-Star-caliber talent.