Five-Star Plus+ CG Dylan Harper commits to Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Paterson (N.J.) Don Bosco Prep Five-Star Plus+ combo guard Dylan Harper has announced his commitment to the Rutgers Scarlet Knights.

Harper is the brother of former Scarlet Knights star Ron Harper Jr. and the son of former NBA first-round pick Ron Harper Sr.

“The rise they’re on,” Harper told On3’s Jamie Shaw of what interests him about the local program. “I think last year they had a little bit of a down year. But the previous years, they’ve been in March Madness three years in a row, so really how coach Pike (Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell) and the rest of the staff is really helping the state of New Jersey and Rutgers go up.”

Five-Star Plus+ small forward Ace Bailey is also committed to the Scarlet Knights and has been part of their recruiting pitch to Harper.

“It’s an everyday thing with Ace (Bailey). It might not be about Rutgers; it might just be about life, lifestyle stuff like that. But me and him always talk. It’s always a good time when me and him get together.”

Harper is the nation’s No. 3 overall prospect in the 2024 cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking — a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He is also the top recruit at his position and in the state of New Jersey.

Dylan Harper Scouting Summary

“It is the feel of the game that really pops for Dylan Harper. The lefty is a big guard; he has a strong frame with good length. While he lacks top-end burst, he always gets to his spots. Harper has a supreme feel for angles and footwork, and he does a great job of using his body and his hips to put defenders in ‘jail.’ His pace is never rushed; he always has a plan with the ball in his hands. He is more of a scorer than a shooter. While he can knock down a spot three, he does need to clean some things up there. Harper has a crafty handle with an array of hesitates and counters. He is great with angles around the basket and can score through contact without playing above the rim. He has great balance in the paint and – again – uses his body really well. At 6-foot-5, he really competes and plays with the utmost confidence. Harper is a good team defender. His father is 5x NBA Champion Ron Harper, and his brother, Ron Harper, Jr., has spent time in the league.”