Dylan Harper is the USA’s #1 player. Surprises College Basketball by Selecting Duke Basketball Above Alabama and BYU Because of strong familial ties and the desire to win an NCAA championship with the Blue Devils

Dylan Harper, the top-ranked basketball recruit in the United States for the class of 2024, surprised the college basketball world by committing to Rutgers University over powerhouse programs like Duke, Alabama, and BYU. This decision was influenced by strong familial ties and a desire to forge his own path in the sport.(SBNation.com)

Born on March 2, 2006, in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, Dylan Harper hails from a family deeply entrenched in basketball. His father, Ron Harper Sr., is a five-time NBA champion who played alongside legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. His mother, Maria, played college basketball and currently serves as an assistant coach at Don Bosco Prep, Dylan’s high school alma mater. His older brother, Ron Harper Jr., starred at Rutgers before moving on to the NBA. This rich basketball lineage played a significant role in shaping Dylan’s career and his decision to stay close to home for college. (Wikipedia, News Observer)

As a consensus five-star recruit, Harper received offers from numerous top-tier programs, including Duke, Kansas, Indiana, and Auburn. Duke, in particular, was considered a frontrunner due to its storied basketball history and the allure of joining the “Brotherhood.” Harper even visited Duke and expressed admiration for the program’s culture and the genuine care shown by the coaching staff. (Wikipedia, Duke Basketball Report)

However, despite the national attention and the prestige associated with these programs, Harper chose to commit to Rutgers. He cited the strong bond he developed with the Rutgers coaching staff and the opportunity to make a significant impact in his home state as key factors in his decision. “Staying home was the biggest thing to me,” Harper said. “Just to be able to play my next level of basketball at home in my backyard—with all of my family, friends, and everyone who has seen me grow up and supported me—that was the main factor.” (SBNation.com, EssentiallySports, Sportskeeda)

Harper’s freshman season at Rutgers has been nothing short of remarkable. He quickly established himself as one of the best true freshmen in college basketball, averaging 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. His performances in early-season tournaments, including back-to-back games with 36 and 37 points against Notre Dame and Alabama, respectively, showcased his scoring prowess and ability to perform under pressure. (SBNation.com)

His contributions earned him spots on the Third-team All-Big Ten and the Big Ten All-Freshman Team. Harper’s decision to stay home and play for Rutgers has not only elevated the program’s national profile but also demonstrated that top recruits can thrive outside traditional basketball powerhouses. (Wikipedia)

With his impressive freshman campaign, Harper has positioned himself as a top prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft. His decision to choose Rutgers over more prominent programs underscores the importance of personal values, family influence, and the desire to create a unique legacy. As he continues to develop his game, Harper remains focused on leading Rutgers to new heights and solidifying his place among the next generation of basketball stars.(SBNation.com, SBNation.com)