San Antonio Spurs rookie Dylan Harper had a huge night off the bench on Monday to beat the New Orleans Pelicans. Harper finished with 22 points, three rebounds and six assists on 62.5% shooting. In the final moments of the game, the guard willed the Spurs to a 135-132 victory with his clutch layup.
Harper’s game against New Orleans was important, since he had just come off a three-point performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday. The youngster shot 1-for-11 from the field and struggled to score. Fortunately for the Spurs guard, he bounced back.
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Speaking to the media after the game, Harper revealed how he hasn’t let his bad games affect him.
San Antonio Spurs rookie guard Dylan Harper (2)© Candice Ward-Imagn Images
“In the beginning of the year, I was a little iffy, a little hesitant,” Harper said. “But as the season kept on going, all my teammates and coaches, everyone just encouraged me to be me.
“I think plays like that show that I’mma attack the rim no matter what, I’mma get to the line even if I get there and they foul me.”
His approach to the game has not changed, and he remains aggressive. Out of all the rookies, Harper ranks seventh in total drives this season.
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Before facing New Orleans, San Antonio’s first-year player has appeared in 12 games this season, averaging 12.8 points, 3.1 rebounds and 3.8 assists. Without their best player, Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs look to Harper and the rest of the team to work together and remain competitive.
Wembanyama has missed his 11th game this season due to a left calf strain.
Related: NBA Facing Troubling Development After Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama Announcement
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 9, 2025, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.