Dylan Harper Declares Intent to Start for Spurs Next Season
Rookie guard Dylan Harper stated his ambition to secure a starting position with the San Antonio Spurs in his upcoming sophomore season, expressing his desire to avoid a reserve role.
San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper has declared his intention to be a starter in his second NBA season, signaling a shift from his rookie role. "I ain’t coming off no bench," Harper stated in a recent GQ interview with teammate Stephon Castle.
During his debut campaign, Harper, the former No. 2 overall draft pick, averaged 11.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game in 22 minutes. He notably increased his production during the playoffs, averaging 14.1 points on 51% shooting from the field, despite starting only two games.
Harper's limited starts reportedly caused frustration, a sentiment noticed by his teammates. "He was upset with playing time and different roles that he was in," Devin Vassell commented after the Spurs' NBA Finals Game 5 loss to the New York Knicks. Harper's stated goal of winning Sixth Man of the Year also provided insight into his perspective on his role.
The Spurs possess a crowded guard rotation, featuring established players like Devin Vassell, De’Aaron Fox, and last season’s Sixth Man winner, Keldon Johnson. Fox, who started at point guard for the Spurs throughout the playoffs, averaged 15.6 points, 6.0 assists, and 3.8 rebounds while shooting 41% from the field and 29% from three-point range over 33.1 minutes per game. Despite Fox's starting role, discussions arose about potentially moving Harper into the starting lineup due to his offensive contributions.
Castle sought to reassure Harper, telling him, "Bro, all you got to know is you going to be in the starting lineup. Be ready to hoop." Fox is entering the second year of a four-year, $229 million contract extension with the Spurs.
Harper's ambition adds an intriguing element to lineup decisions for head coach Mitch Johnson as the team aims to contend for a championship alongside Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs will open their 2026-27 season at home against the Oklahoma City Thunder, marking a rematch of the Western Conference Finals.